Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A 12-mile circumnavigation of the island, nearly half of which is con-
trolled by Acadia National Park, is possible by starting in the village.
There is a small village with tiny store and ranger station where the ferry
docks. In summer the boat continues onto Duck Harbor, carrying camp-
ers with reservations for the lean-tos (it does not take bikes). Bikes are
banned on the park's hiking trails.
Head east out of the village on sole paved road. The area is privately
owned but the road is public. It will eventually curve south out toward
Eastern Head. As you approach Duck Harbor on the island's southwest
side, a side road leads two additional miles out to Western Head, with its
fine ocean views. The around-island road continues from Duck Harbor
back to the village, winding slightly more inland through deep, damp for-
est and up several hills. This a moderate ride suitable for in-shape begin-
ners. Be sure to watch the clock - you don't want to miss the last ferry
back to Stonington.
Acadia is also a favorite spot for technical climbers, who test their skills
against sheer cliffs on the Precipice and South Bubble. Acadia is one of
the few places where the cliffs go right down to the sea. At Otter Cliffs the
park has installed permanent climbing anchors to save trees and vegeta-
tion that was being worn by ropes used on the more popular routes.
Sightseeing
Central to the park is the 22-mile Park Loop Road (see below), which
begins in Hulls Cove in Bar Harbor. The park also maintains and staffs a
helpful information center here, with audio-visual presentations and free
maps.
Pick up a copy of
The Beaver Log
, a park publication con-
taining the schedule for the scores of free or low-cost
ranger and naturalist talks held each day. Topics range
from tide pool life, to astronomy, to learning about and
watching endangered peregrine falcons that nest on
Acadia's cliffs.
Acadia National Park Park Loop Road
28 miles, 1½ hours (without stops), round trip
Highlights:
At just 22 miles long, the Acadia National Park Loop Road
and spur up Cadillac Mountain is, mile-for-mile, the most scenic drive in
Maine.
Route:
It begins at the park visitor center just off State Route 3 in
Hulls
Cove
, a few miles north of downtown Bar Harbor. The visitor center is
worth a stop, with exhibits, free maps and displays, helpful volunteers
and interpretive staff.
