Acadia National Park: Coastal Beauty, Granite Peaks, and Rugged Trails

Acadia National Park Lighthouse

If you’re looking for the perfect mix of rocky coastlines, mountain hikes, and historic charm, Acadia National Park is it. Set along the coast of Maine, Acadia protects over 49,000 acres of forests, lakes, and islands — including most of Mount Desert Island. It’s the first national park east of the Mississippi and one of the most visited in the U.S.

A Quick History

Acadia was established in 1916 as Sieur de Monts National Monument, becoming a national park in 1919. Wealthy philanthropists like George Dorr and John D. Rockefeller Jr. helped conserve the land and build its famous carriage roads. In 1929, it officially took on the name Acadia, honoring the former French colony that once included Maine.

What to See and Do

Cadillac Mountain is a must. At 1,530 feet, it’s the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast — and one of the first places in the country to see the sunrise, especially in fall and winter.

Take time to explore:

Park Loop Road – a scenic drive with stops at Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliffs

Jordan Pond – peaceful views and the famous Jordan Pond House popovers

Beehive Trail – a short, steep hike with iron rungs and rewarding views

Schoodic Peninsula – less crowded, just as stunning, with crashing surf and quiet trails

In summer, you can kayak, bike, or relax on rocky beaches. In autumn, the leaves put on a colorful show. Winter brings snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Tips from the Trail

  • Go early — especially for sunrise at Cadillac or popular trails like Precipice.
  • Use the Island Explorer shuttle in peak season to avoid parking issues.
  • Check tide charts before walking to Bar Island; the land bridge disappears fast.
  • Reserve timed entry for Cadillac Mountain summit road in the busy months.
  • Bring layers — even summer mornings can be chilly along the coast.

Did You Know?

  • Acadia gets about 4 million visitors each year.
  • The park has 158 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads.
  • Over 300 bird species have been spotted in the park.
  • John D. Rockefeller Jr. funded the famous granite bridge system still used today.

Coastal-Inspired Gear

If you want something to remember your time in Acadia, check out these designs inspired by the park’s sea cliffs and evergreen forests:

Acadia Camo Hat – Otto Cap – rugged style with coastal teal tones

Acadia Richardson 112 Hat – classic mesh-back design with a clean patch

Acadia Yupoong 6606 Hat – sleek fit for everyday wear

Plan Your Visit

Learn more about Acadia National Park on the official NPS site, including trail closures, maps, and shuttle schedules. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, there’s always a new trail, a hidden cove, or a perfect sunrise waiting.