With stunning seashores, delicious food, and exhilarating hikes, Acadia National Park should be at the top of your vacation bucket list. Every trip has some unexpected twists in store, but to make sure you are prepared, read on to discover eight things that may surprise you about Acadia National Park!
The Water Temperature
When you are planning your trip you may see beautiful pictures of Sand Beach. Although swimming is permitted, and many do, myself included temperatures in these waters can be extremely cold! Temperatures range from 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Crowd Levels
When visiting the Park, you may be shocked at how crowded certain areas are and how empty others may be. During peak season, the Loop Road will be lined with cars, but if you go to the Quietside of Mount Desert Island you can traverse trails without seeing a single other hiker.
The Colors
Acadia National Park is home to beautiful vistas and ecosystems with an array of colors. The blues and greens of the coastline vegetation, crashing waves, and the rocks that line the shore always stun me.
Parking
Parking lots can fill up fast! In some areas, you are allowed to park on the side of the road, but in certain sections of the park, you will find yourself waiting for a parking spot. Have a backup plan, and be prepared to walk a bit to reach your destination.
Danger levels of hikes
In a world of guardrails and barriers you may be surprised to see warnings at the beginning of trails that warn you of exposed ledges and cliff faces. Some of the trails in Acadia are dangerous to hike on, and you should use caution while traversing them. Stay away from the edges, even for a cool picture, and keep a close eye on any children with you.
Fantastic Photo Opportunities
There are fantastic photo opportunities in every corner of the park! Bring your camera and keep it charged!
Smells
If you are coming from a city, the smells of Acadia can be so refreshing to take in. Walking through meadows, pine forests, rocky shores, and forests the scents of Acadia rival the sights. I wish I could bottle it all up and bring it home. The closest I can get is a candle or scented pillow to remind me of my time here.
The Delicious Food
From Lobster rolls, chowders, and ice cream, to the iconic Jordan Pond popovers, Mount Desert Island, and Maine as a whole, have a wonderful and unique culinary scene. Sample as much of it as you can during your time here, and make sure to hit spots that aren’t as popular. Small stands can be found at the end of some resident’s driveways that offer scrumptious baked goods like pies, cookies, and breads.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or a food lover, Acadia National Park will capture you with its charm. Be prepared for the unexpected and savor every moment of your visit to this remarkable destination!
Have you been to Acadia? Let me know below and thanks for reading! 🙂