Acadia National Park: Beautiful, but Are the Crowds Worth It? (Plus a Pass Giveaway!)
Acadia National Park, a jewel on the rugged Maine coast, conjures up images of breathtaking sunrises, granite cliffs, and the freshest lobster you've ever tasted. I went in search of all that and, for the most part, found it. But I also found something else: a whole lot of people. So, is Acadia worth braving the crowds? Stick with me, and I’ll tell you everything you need to know, from scoring that elusive Cadillac Mountain sunrise reservation to finding the almost perfect lobster roll. And, because we believe everyone should experience this park (at least once), we're giving away a National Park Pass covering entrance fees for a whole year! Read on to find out how to enter.
Chasing the Sunrise: Cadillac Mountain’s Hype is Real (But Requires an Alarm)
Okay, let’s be real: waking up at 3:00 AM is never fun. But doing it to (hopefully) snag a sunrise view from the summit of Cadillac Mountain (44.3528° N, 68.2258° W)? That takes a special kind of dedication, and a whole lot of coffee. The first hurdle is actually getting a reservation through Recreation.gov, and let me tell you, those things disappear faster than free lobster rolls. Book well in advance—we're talking weeks, maybe even months during peak season—to avoid total disappointment. Believe me, it's worth the planning, but don't say I didn't warn you about the early alarm.
The drive up in the pre-dawn darkness was eerie, the winding road illuminated only by headlights. Then, as we reached the summit, a hushed anticipation filled the air. The eastern sky began to glow, a subtle promise of what was to come. And then, it happened: the sun crested the horizon, painting the Porcupine Islands in the distance with vibrant pink and orange hues. It was, undeniably, spectacular. For those brief, magical minutes, the early wake-up call felt completely justified. This is one of the best photography spots Acadia has to offer.
The Ocean Path Trail: Granite Cliffs and Crashing Waves (Accessible to All)
After the sunrise spectacle (and a much-needed nap), we set out to hike the Ocean Path Trail, a relatively easy and accessible route that stretches from Sand Beach to Otter Cliff. I appreciated this trail for its accessibility; it’s suitable for all ages and skill levels. And the views? Absolutely stunning. The trail hugs the coastline, offering panoramic vistas of granite cliffs meeting the relentless power of the Atlantic.
Thunder Hole, with its booming waves, is a must-see, as is Otter Point, which provides dramatic perspectives of the rugged coastline. Just be aware that these popular spots are, well, popular. You might have to wait your turn to snag that perfect photo.
When exploring Acadia, remember to respect the wildlife. Keep a safe distance from all animals, especially during nesting season. Peregrine falcons are known to nest in the park, and it’s crucial to avoid disturbing them.
Lobster Rolls and Goldenrod Taffy: A Culinary Adventure (Minus the Moxie)
All that hiking worked up an appetite, so we headed to The Travelin' Lobster food truck (approximately 44.2713° N, 68.3382° W in Southwest Harbor) for lunch. I ordered the classic lobster roll with drawn butter and a side of coleslaw. The lobster was fresh and sweet, the butter rich and decadent. Was it the best lobster roll I’ve ever had in Maine? It was good, really good, but maybe not life-changing. The value was decent, especially compared to some of the more touristy restaurants in Bar Harbor. I'd rate it an 8/10.
Speaking of culinary adventures, the Maine classic Moxie soda is a "must-try" according to many... I tried it. Once. Never again.
Later, after our sunrise hike, we warmed up at the Jordan Pond House with a cup of hot chocolate. The views from inside the restaurant are spectacular, overlooking the pristine Jordan Pond and the Bubbles mountains. And, of course, I couldn’t resist buying a piece of Acadia goldenrod taffy. Sweet, chewy, and a perfect reminder of the park’s natural beauty.
Sand Beach: Beautiful Sand, but a Lot of Elbows
Sand Beach is a unique geological wonder and one of Acadia's main attractions. The sand is comprised of tiny shell fragments. However, during peak season, it can feel less like a relaxing beach day and more like a sardine convention. Don’t believe me? Check out this TikTok video:
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The jarring sounds, the relentless crowd, the unexpected frisbee – it’s all part of the Sand Beach experience. It's popular for a reason, with it's stunning ocean views and smooth sandy expanse, but you may find yourself fighting for a patch of sand to call your own.
Photography Tips for Acadia (Even in Harsh Light)
Acadia National Park is a photographer's dream, but capturing its beauty can be challenging, especially during peak season when the crowds and harsh mid-day light are in full force. For the expansive views from Cadillac Mountain, I highly recommend using a wide-angle lens, such as a 16-35mm lens. This will allow you to capture the entire panorama, from the islands dotting the horizon to the rugged coastline below.
Shooting in harsh mid-day light can be tricky. Consider using a diffuser to soften the light or finding shade under trees or cliffs. The golden hours (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offer the most flattering light for landscape photography. Look for photography spots near Otter Cliff for some of the best images with less foot traffic.
Win a National Park Pass!
Ready to experience Acadia (or any other National Park) for free? We're giving away a National Park Pass covering entrance fees for one year! To enter, simply follow us on social media, share this blog post, and tag a friend you'd like to explore the parks with. See the terms and conditions on our website for full details.
Final Thoughts: Is Acadia Worth It?
Despite the crowds, the early wake-up call, and my personal aversion to Moxie, Acadia National Park is undeniably worth a visit. The beauty of the landscape, the invigorating hikes, and the fresh seafood are experiences you won't soon forget. Just be prepared to share the park with a lot of other people, plan ahead, and maybe pack a little extra patience. You might even discover some hidden gems away from the main tourist hotspots. Just don't ask me to drink Moxie with you. Happy exploring! And don't forget to enter the giveaway for your chance to win a National Park Pass!