When Will and I were planning our long weekend itinerary in Maine, we knew we absolutely had to dedicate a day to visiting Acadia National Park. Since there are so many different trails, hikes, mountains, and beaches in Acadia, I thought I’d share our day with you to help the planning process seem less overwhelming.
What to Know before visiting Acadia
- “From May through October, all Acadia National Park visitors are required to have a park entrance pass. All vehicles must display a park entrance pass clearly visible through the windshield.” Purchase your private vehicle pass online here for $30.
- Parking fills up fast! Arrive to the park as early as possible.
- Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Recommended items include a backpack, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, and a rain coat.
Our Day in the Park
It was a rainy, October day but still very enjoyable. We started out at Jordan Pond House for lunch (opens at 11 am). Though we arrived at 10:30, there was already a line. However, the line moves quickly, so don’t be discouraged! You MUST try the popovers. Their outside tables had a breathtaking view of Jordan Pond and the mountains beyond.
Jordan Pond Trail
After lunch, we walked straight to the trail around Jordan Pond. For most of the trail, they had a raised wooden area for park-goers to walk on so as not to trample the terrain. As a heads up, strollers were too wide, so families with young children had to carry their kids. The trail itself took about an hour to walk around. I highly recommend this easy hike as it was so peaceful to be walking right next to the water underneath the cascading trees.
Sand Beach
We then got in our car and drove to Sand Beach. With mountains adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean, this beach was absolutely beautiful. In warmer weather, this is a great spot for kids as they can swim and play. Since it was very cold for us, we didn’t stay too long. There is a trail off of Sand Beach called Great Head Trail that goes up the cliffside. It wasn’t too difficult, but a bit steep. After 15 minutes, you’ll be high enough to see all of Sand Beach and beyond.
Thunder Hole
Our next stop was Thunder Hole. It the place to experience “the thunder of the sea against the rocky shores of Maine!” There was an easy path to walk down to the ocean’s edge, with people young and old in awe of the waves crashing to great heights.
Cadillac Mountain
At this point in the afternoon, it started raining so heavily that we had to leave the park. We were planning on a sunset walk around Cadillac Mountain, but ended up postponing our visit to the next morning. For the purpose of time, we opted to drive to the top of the mountain. It was a clear day at the peak, so we were lucky. We sat and took in the views of the autumn leaves. There were many hawks and eagles swooping at lower elevations, and you could even see the ocean way off in the distance. It was a great day to be surrounded by nature.
Let me know if you have any questions or suggestions about Acadia National Park. It it a must for nature lovers, young and old.
“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.” – John Muir
