!Acadia Vacations - Places To See In Downeast Maine

An Introduction to Mount Desert Island & Acadia National Park

Here I have described Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park so you will have a "feel" for the relationship of the two and you will have some idea of what to expect when you arrive here.

A Quick Tour of Mount Desert Island & Acadia National Park

An interactive map that will provide a quick tour of Mount Desert Island. Many of the locations you will see on this map will be explored in more detail below.

Ship Harbor Nature Trail
Ship Harbor Nature Trail is an easy trail that offers a wide variety of natural landscape to explore and enjoy. Great for all ages.
Located at the southern tip of Mount Desert Island, on the West side of SomesSound near the Seawall Campground and Bass Harbor.

Stanley Brook
Stanley Brook is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path place where you will not encounter crowds and can enjoy nature up close and personal. The Carriage Path passes over the bridge and the brook meanders through the forest. It is easy to access the brook and this is a great spot for all ages.
Located at the southern tip of Mount Desert Island, on the East Side of Somes Sound near Seal Harbor.

Park Loop Road - Coastal Section
Probably the most visited part of the Park the Park Loop Road offers many spectacular scenic views. Here I describe the section of the Loop Road that runs close to Frenchman Bay.
Located on the Eastern side of Mount Desert Island, South of Bar Harbor.

Park Loop Road - Inland Section
The inland sections of the Park Loop Road offer a variety of beautiful scenic vistas to enjoy from quiet secluded ponds to majestic mountains, small streams, waterfalls (not Niagara but beautiful non the less - especially in the Spring), pine trees, birch trees, oak trees and lots of interesting fauna. The inland section is where you are most likely to see wildlife such as deer, beaver, fox other small critters.
Located on the Eastern side of Mount Desert Island, South of Bar Harbor.

Bass Harbor
A working lobster fishing harbor - a great place to eat lobster on the dock. Spend an evening here watching the activity. Watch what the sun does to the boat at their moorings.
Located on the South West tip of Mount Desert Island

The Beehive Trail
I love this trail - it is a very rewarding hike although it is rated as difficult in most guide books. Do it if you can!
Located on the East side of Mount Desert Island near Sand Beach.

Stan's Favorite Things to Do on MDI & in ANP

Here you will find a list of some of my favorite things to do and see (in addition to the other things listed here) on Mount Desert Island.

Various locations on the island and in the Park

Things Stan Thinks Kids Will Enjoy Doing on MDI & in ANP

What I have done here is provide some ideas that I believe will help you plan fun activities for kids. It assumes you understand the MDI/Acadia is a place where outdoor activities and interacting with nature is the focus.

Various locations on the island and in the Park

Stan's Recommendations for Hiking on MDI & in ANP

I have not hiked every trail in ANP and do not want you to think I am an expert on hiking by any streach of the imagination. However, over the last 15 years my son and I have had the pleasure of hiking a good number. Here you will find some of our favorites which we feel you will enjoy as well.

Various locations on the island and in the Park

Stan's One Day Tour
Many people ask me what to do if they only have one day to spend in Acadia National Park. It is very difficult to answer that question because one day is simply not enough time given all there is to do and see. And, depending on who you ask you will surely get a very different answer. I have tried to give you a plan that I feel will expose you to as many beautiful sights and fun activities so you will maximize your one day without having you feeling pressure to rush and not take the time to enjoy your visit. I am sure you will come back and stay longer.
Various locations on the island and in the Park

Camping In Acadia National Park

Description of the camping options inside Acadia National Park and how to make reservations. For camping options outside the park see the Camping section of this Web Site.

Ranger-led Programs in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park Rangers offer a variety of informative programs for all members of the family. These are very popular and very informative - great for kids but adults enjoy them also.

Acadia National Park Carriage Paths

The Carriage Paths are one of the most well known features of Acadia National Park. On them, you can hike, bike and even ride in horse drawn carriages. No motor driven vehicles are allowed on the Carriage Paths.

Winter in Acadia National Park

You can enjoy Mount Desert Island any time of the year - find out what to expect in the winter months on Mount Desert Island