An Expanded 70 km Coastal & Forest Odyssey

Explore Acadia National Park’s highlights and hidden gems with this 8-stop itinerary around Maine’s crown jewel. Start and end in Bar Harbor, weaving through cliffs, lakes, and villages.

Key Stops & Highlights

1. Sand Beach. Swim (bravely!) in the Atlantic or hike the Ocean Path Trail to Thunder Hole.
2. Thunder Hole. Time your visit for high tide to hear the “thunder” of waves crashing into this sea cave.
3. Otter Cliff. Granite cliffs popular with rock climbers. Walk the Bowl Trail for coastal panoramas.
4. Cadillac Mountain Summit. Sunrise or sunset views from the East Coast’s highest peak. Tip: Reserve timed entry tickets May–Oct
5. Jordan Pond & The Bubbles. Stroll the lakeshore loop, then hike the South Bubble Trail to balance on Bubble Rock, a glacial erratic.
6. Echo Lake Beach. Freshwater swimming with views of Beech Mountain. Less crowded than Sand Beach.
7. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. Iconic red-and-white lighthouse. Descend steep stairs for dramatic coastal photos.
8. Asticou Azalea Garden. Japanese-inspired garden in Northeast Harbor. Peaceful cherry blossoms (spring) or fiery foliage (fall).

End with fresh lobster at Side Street Café or a sunset sail from Bar Harbor Inn.

Tips

• Parking: Use the Island Explorer Shuttle (free) to avoid parking headaches.
• Wildlife: Watch for harbor seals near Otter Cliff and peregrine falcons at Precipice Trail (closed during nesting season).
• Detours: Add the Carriage Roads for bike rides or Wonderland Trail for tide-pooling.

Official Website for Maps & Alerts: www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm