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Acadia National Park

Designation: National Park

Location: Maine

Visit Official Park Website

šŸ“˜ Park Overview

Acadia National Park protects the natural beauty of the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline of the United States, an abundance of habitats, and a rich cultural heritage. At 4 million visits a year, it's one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the United States. Visitors enjoy 27 miles of historic motor roads, 158 miles of hiking trails, and 45 miles of carriage roads.

šŸŒ¤ Weather Information

Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Acadia experiences all four seasons. Summer temperatures range from 45-90F (7-30C). Fall temperatures range from 30-70F (-1-21C). Typically the first frost is in mid-October and first snowfall begins in November and can continue through April with an average accumulation of 73 inches (185 cm). Winter temperatures range from 14-35F (-10 - 2C). Spring temperatures range from 30-70F (-1-21C).

šŸš— Directions

From Boston take I-95 north to Augusta, Maine, then Route 3 east to Ellsworth, and on to Mount Desert Island. For an alternate route, continue on I-95 north to Bangor, Maine, then take I-395 to U.S. Route 1A east to Ellsworth. In Ellsworth, take Route 3 to Mount Desert Island.

Images

A brilliant sunset filled with hues of blue, red, orange, magenta, and purple highlight the sky.

As the tallest point on the eastern seaboard Cadillac Mountain provides fantastic viewpoints.

Credit: NPS / Kristi Rugg

Hiking tracks carved through three feet of snow wind through a heavy snow-laden forest.

During the colder months snows transform our landscape into a winter wonderland.

Credit: NPS / Kristi Rugg

Large puffy clouds dot a brilliant blue sky as wave crash against the rocky coastline of Acadia.

Millions of people come to Acadia for our distinctive rocky coastline.

Credit: NPS / Kristi Rugg

Two hikers ascend a sheer cliff trail by way of historic iron rung ladders.

Whether it's a stroll along Ocean Path or a difficult ascent up The Precipice, there are hiking trails for everyone!

Credit: NPS / Kristi Rugg

Activities

Topics

Operating Hours

Sunday
All Day
Monday
All Day
Tuesday
All Day
Wednesday
All Day
Thursday
All Day
Friday
All Day
Saturday
All Day

Entrance Fees

Timed Entry Reservation - Location
Vehicle reservations are not required for any other areas of the park, or for visitors who enter the area by foot, bike, or taxi. Vehicle reservations provide a timed entry, but do not require a departure time until 9 pm, when the road closes to vehicles. Reservations do not permit re-entry. Reservations are per vehicle, not per person. Reservations do not assign a specific parking space. Parking is prohibited outside of designated spaces. Cadillac is not served by the Island Explorer bus system.
$6.00
Entrance - Private Vehicle
Valid for seven days. Admits private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less) and all occupants. This includes rental cars, RVs, and vans with fewer than 16 passengers. If the vehicle pass is purchased, no other pass is necessary.
$35.00
Entrance - Motorcycle
Valid for seven days. Admits one or two passengers on a private, non-commercial motorcycle.
$30.00
Entrance - Per Person
Valid for seven days. Admits one individual with no car (bicyclist, hiker, pedestrian). Youth 15 and under are admitted free of charge.
$20.00
Entrance - Education/Academic Groups
School groups and other academic institutions may qualify for an Educational Fee Waiver. If not qualified, please check fees for large or commercial groups.
$0.00
Entrance - Non-commercial Groups
Groups entering Acadia by bus, van, or other high-capacity vehicles (16 people or more) must pay an organized group entrance fee. Adults (16 years old and over): $20/per person Youth (15 years old and under): Free
$0.00
Commercial Entrance - Per Person
Are you operating a business that provides leisure or recreational services while in the park? If so, it is considered a commercial group and you are required to have a Commercial Use Authorization. A commercial group is defined as consisting of one or more persons traveling on an itinerary that has been packaged, priced, or sold for leisure or recreational purposes by an organization that realizes financial gain through the provisions of the service. Learn more on our "Do Business With Us" page.
$0.00

Entrance Passes

Annual Entrance - Park
The Acadia Annual Pass is valid only at Acadia and may be purchased online or in person. You do not need an additional entrance pass if you already have a federal lands pass. It is valid for 12 months from purchase month. This pass admits the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle. In addition to park visitor centers and campgrounds, the Acadia Annual Pass is available at the Acadia Regional Chamber at Thompson Island, and at Bar Harbor, Ellsworth and Southwest Harbor chambers of commerce.
$70.00

3-Day Weather Forecast

Saturday, Sep 26

Overcast

Overcast

High: 69.7Ā°F | Low: 53.7Ā°F

Humidity: 65%

Wind: 14.8 mph

Rain Chance: 80%

UV Index: 4.7

Sunrise: 06:25 AM

Sunset: 06:23 PM

Moon: Full Moon (99%)

Visibility: 6 mi

Dew Point: 52.4Ā°F

Cloud Cover: 80%

Pressure: N/A mb

Air Quality (PM2.5): N/A

Ozone: N/A

EPA Index: N/A

Sunday, Sep 27

Patchy rain nearby

Patchy rain nearby

High: 59.3Ā°F | Low: 54.1Ā°F

Humidity: 82%

Wind: 17.2 mph

Rain Chance: 89%

UV Index: 0.8

Sunrise: 06:26 AM

Sunset: 06:21 PM

Moon: Waning Gibbous (96%)

Visibility: 6 mi

Dew Point: 52.8Ā°F

Cloud Cover: 89%

Pressure: N/A mb

Air Quality (PM2.5): N/A

Ozone: N/A

EPA Index: N/A

Monday, Sep 28

Patchy rain nearby

Patchy rain nearby

High: 57.9Ā°F | Low: 52.9Ā°F

Humidity: 87%

Wind: 15.2 mph

Rain Chance: 83%

UV Index: 0.6

Sunrise: 06:27 AM

Sunset: 06:19 PM

Moon: Waning Gibbous (91%)

Visibility: 6 mi

Dew Point: 51.9Ā°F

Cloud Cover: 83%

Pressure: N/A mb

Air Quality (PM2.5): N/A

Ozone: N/A

EPA Index: N/A

Weather Alerts (4)

āš ļø High Surf Advisory (Minor)
ā–¼

High Surf Advisory issued September 26 at 1:49AM EDT until September 27 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Caribou ME

Effective: Sep 26, 2026 1:49am
Expires: Sep 26, 2026 4:00pm

* WHAT...Large breaking waves of 5 to 9 feet. Highest waves will
impact the outermost islands. High risk of rip currents.

* WHERE...Coastal Hancock County.

* WHEN...From 8 AM this morning to 8 PM EDT Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Large waves can present a danger to people on rocks
above the water. Stay away from rock outcrops along the
shoreline exposed to ocean waves, as waves can easily sweep
people into the cold ocean water.

āš ļø Small Craft Advisory (Minor)
ā–¼

Small Craft Advisory issued September 26 at 7:55AM EDT until September 28 at 8:00AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME

Effective: Sep 26, 2026 7:55am
Expires: Sep 26, 2026 4:00pm

* WHAT...Northeast winds 15 to 25 kt with gusts up to 30 kt and
seas 3 to 6 ft.

* WHERE...Intra Coastal Waters from Schoodic Point, ME to
Stonington, ME.

* WHEN...Until 8 AM EDT Monday.

* IMPACTS...Conditions will be hazardous to small craft.

āš ļø High Surf Advisory (Minor)
ā–¼

High Surf Advisory issued September 26 at 2:25PM EDT until September 27 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Caribou ME

Effective: Sep 26, 2026 2:25pm
Expires: Sep 27, 2026 2:30am

* WHAT....Large breaking waves of 4 to 8 feet. Highest waves will
impact the outermost islands. High risk of rip currents.

* WHERE...Coastal Hancock County.

* WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Large waves can present a danger to people on rocks
above the water. Stay away from rock outcrops along the
shoreline exposed to ocean waves, as waves can easily sweep
people into the cold ocean water.

āš ļø Small Craft Advisory (Minor)
ā–¼

Small Craft Advisory issued September 26 at 2:22PM EDT until September 28 at 8:00AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME

Effective: Sep 26, 2026 2:22pm
Expires: Sep 27, 2026 2:30am

* WHAT...Northeast winds 15 to 25 kt with gusts up to 30 kt and
seas 4 to 7 ft.

* WHERE...Intra Coastal Waters from Schoodic Point, ME to
Stonington, ME.

* WHEN...Until 8 AM EDT Monday.

* IMPACTS...Conditions will be hazardous to small craft.

Park Alerts

Cadillac Summit Road Closed for Construction Park Closure
The Cadillac Summit Road is closed through April 30 for all uses, including pedestrians and cyclists, from the Park Loop Road to just prior to a parking lot at the summit. Hiking trails to Cadillac Summit remain open.

More Info

Cadillac Summit West Parking Lot Park Closure
The Cadillac Summit West Parking Lot, also known as Blue Hill Overlook, will be closed for construction through May 19.
Extreme Heat Advisory Danger
The National Weather Service has issued extreme heat warnings and advisories for Wednesday, July 1, through Friday, July 3, which will produce dangerous conditions. Some people will face a higher risk of heat-related illness due to underlying medical conditions or certain activities. Dress cool, stay hydrated, and limit exertion. Watch for dizziness, nausea, headaches, shortness of breath, confusion, rapid pulse, and fainting. If you or someone else experiences signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately.
Air Quality Advisory Caution
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection has issued an Air Quality Alert for the entire state for particle pollution due to wildfire smoke for Fri July 3 through Sun July 5. Particle pollution levels are expected to rise during the weekend. People are advised to seek out and follow health messages if visibility is poor or they can smell smoke. Please click "more" to read the full alerts on our Current Conditions page.

More Info

Several Trails Close For Peregrine Falcon Nesting Season Park Closure
Effective March 1, areas including Jordan Cliffs Trail, Penobscot East Trail, Precipice Trail, and Valley Cove Trail are closed to protect nesting peregrine falcons. The parking lot for the Precipice Trail is also closed. Rangers strictly enforce closures.

More Info

Avoid Water Contact at Sand Beach Lagoon (Not for Sand Beach) Caution
Bacterial levels have exceeded public health standards at Sand Beach Lagoon and a Public Health Advisory has been posted. The public is advised against swimming at this beach until bacterial levels return to healthful levels. (Not for Sand Beach.)
Park Loop Road to Kebo Street Closed for Construction Park Closure
A section of the Park Loop Road, from the start of one-way traffic to Kebo Street, is closed by construction to all uses effective April 6-14. Walkers and bikers should find alternative routes.
Schoodic Mountain Road Closed for Repairs Park Closure
Starting Aug 31, the Schoodic Mountain Road will be closed for repairs from Schoodic Loop Road to the summit of Schoodic Head. Workers will be operating heavy equipment for resurfacing, regrading and ditching.
Park Loop Road Detour Park Closure
The Park Loop Road between Kebo Street and Sieur de Monts is closed to ALL uses for construction and will reopen on Sunday, June 26.Ā  Please follow the detour out Kebo Street to Cromwell Harbor Road and Main Street (Route 3) to re-enter the Park Loop Road at Sieur de Monts.
Carriage Roads open to pedestrians only Park Closure
Starting April 17, the National Park Service will allow pedestrians to use the carriage roads. Bicycle use is prohibited until further notice to protect the roads during spring thaw, also known as ā€œmud season.ā€
Southern Section of Ocean Path Closed for Repairs Park Closure
Starting Aug 31, a section of Ocean Path will be closed for repairs from a trailhead across from the Otter Point parking lot to the trail's southern terminus.
Eastern Section of Beech Mountain Loop Road Closed for Repairs Park Closure
Starting Sept 21, the eastern section of the Beech Mountain Loop Trail will be closed for repairs from a junction just beyond the parking lot to just below the summit at the fire tower. Three alternate routes to the summit are available: the outer loop of the Beech Mountain Loop Trail, Beech South Ridge Trail and Beech West Ridge Trail.

Park Events

Beavers: Nature's Lumberjacks -- Junior Ranger Station

Join Acadiaā€™s Education Staff for a drop-in program at Sand Beach. Ā Pick up a Junior Ranger book, learn about the park and how beavers adapt to winter challenges. Staff will be onsite from 9 to 11 am. Program will be cancelled if temperatures are below 20 degrees (with windchill) or snowing/ precipitating.

Location: Sand Beach Parking Lot

Date: Feb 16, 2026 12:00am to Feb 16, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

All About Bats -- Junior Ranger Station

Join Acadiaā€™s Education Staff for a drop-in program at the Fabbri Picnic Area near Otter Point. Pick up a Junior Ranger book, learn about Acadiaā€™s bat population, adaptations, and current research monitoring efforts. Drop in anytime between 2:00pm and 3:30pm. Program will be cancelled if temperatures are below 20 degrees (with windchill) or snowing/ precipitating.

Location: Fabbri Picnic Area near Otter Point

Date: Feb 17, 2026 12:00am to Feb 17, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

Touch Tank Tour at the College of the Atlantic

Drop-in and meet a park ranger, get up close and personal with intertidal creatures, and learn how to safely explore along Acadiaā€™s rocky shoreline.

Three half hour programs beginning at 1:30 pm, 2 pm, and 2:30 pm. Located at theĀ Dorr Museum of Natural History at the College of the Atlantic.

Location: Dorr Museum of Natural History at the College of the Atlantic.

Date: Feb 17, 2026 12:00am to Feb 17, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

Winter Ecology -- Junior Ranger Station

Join Acadiaā€™s Education Staff for a drop-in program at the Fabbri Picnic Area near Otter Point. Ā Pick up a Junior Ranger book, learn about Acadiaā€™s winter animals, investigate pelts and skulls to learn about the diverse adaptations our hibernators, migrators, and survivors use to deal with winter conditions.

Program will be cancelled if temperatures are below 20 degrees (with windchill) or snowing/ precipitating.

Location: Fabbri Picnic Area near Otter Point

Date: Feb 18, 2026 12:00am to Feb 18, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

Shoreline Inhabitants -- Junior Ranger Station

Join Acadiaā€™s Education Staff and Volunteers for a drop-in program at the Sand Beach Parking Lot.Ā  Pick up a Junior Ranger book and learn about the amazing adaptations that allow shoreline creatures to thrive during the winter.

Ā Program will be cancelled if temperatures are below 20 degrees (with windchill) or snowing/ precipitating.

Location: Sand Beach Parking Lot

Date: Feb 19, 2026 12:00am to Feb 19, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

Touch Tank Tour at the College of the Atlantic

Drop-in and meet a park ranger, get up close and personal with intertidal creatures, and learn how to safely explore along Acadiaā€™s rocky shoreline.

Three half hour programs beginning at 1:30 pm, 2 pm, and 2:30 pm. Located at theĀ Dorr Museum of Natural History at the College of the Atlantic.

Location: Dorr Museum of Natural History at the College of the Atlantic

Date: Feb 19, 2026 12:00am to Feb 19, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

Beavers: Natureā€™s Lumberjacks -- Junior Ranger Station

Join Acadiaā€™s Education Staff and Volunteers for a drop-in program at the Sand Beach Parking Lot. Pick up a Junior Ranger book, learn about the park and how beavers adapt to winter challenges. Staff will be onsite from 9 to 11 am. Program will be cancelled if temperatures are below 20 degrees (with windchill) or snowing/ precipitating.

Location: Sand Beach Parking Lot

Date: Feb 21, 2026 12:00am to Feb 21, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

Schoodic Marine Touch Tank and Art Program

Join Acadia National Park and Schoodic Institute educators at the Schoodic Education and Research Center for a fun and interactive event!
What happens to marine animals when the tide goes out? Learn about the challenges that these animals face at low tide and how their adaptations help them to survive.
Then, create a print to bring home as a reminder of your favorite creature's adaptation.Ā 

All ages welcome! Children must be accompanied by an adult.Ā Ā 

Location: Location: Dorr Hall on the Schoodic Education and Research Center Campus, Winter Harbor, ME.

Date: Apr 21, 2026 12:00am to Apr 21, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

Carroll Homestead Open House

Explore the grounds of an 1800s homestead and farm, play games, and hear family stories. Living history for children, adults, and families.

At Carroll Homestead in Southwest Harbor, Maine.

Carroll Homestead is wheelchair accessible with an accessible portable toilet on site.

You may request sign language, live audio description, assistive listening devices, or other accommodation for any scheduled park event or program at Acadia by contacting us at least 10 days in advance. Learn more at https://go.nps.gov/AcadiaAccessibility

Date: May 16, 2026 12:00am to May 16, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

Carroll Homestead Open House

Explore the grounds of an 1800s homestead and farm, play games, and hear family stories. Living history for children, adults, and families.

At Carroll Homestead in Southwest Harbor, Maine.

Carroll Homestead is wheelchair accessible with an accessible portable toilet on site.

You may request sign language, live audio description, assistive listening devices, or other accommodation for any scheduled park event or program at Acadia by contacting us at least 10 days in advance. Learn more at https://go.nps.gov/AcadiaAccessibility

Date: May 22, 2026 12:00am to May 22, 2026 12:00am

Paid Event

Visitor Center & Contacts

šŸ“ Physical Address:
25 Visitor Center Road
Hulls Cove Visitor Center
Bar Harbor, ME 04609

šŸ¤ Mailing Address:
PO Box 177
Bar Harbor, ME 04609

šŸ“ž Voice Phone: 2072883338

šŸ“ž Fax Phone: 2072888813

šŸ“ž TTY Phone: 2072888800

āœ‰ļø Email: acadia_information@nps.gov

Park Location

šŸ‘ Fun Fact
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