An Intimate Look at Acadia National Park

Enjoy a relaxing drive through magnificent Acadia National Park, pausing every so often for photos at dramatic overlooks that highlight the stunning natural beauty.

After departing from the pier, you will begin driving along the gorgeous coast and soon enter Acadia National Park, the first national park created east of the Mississippi River. After several name changes, the park officially became Acadia in 1929. Today, it sprawls over three main areas, including Mount Desert Island, the focus of this exploration.

One of the coastal highlights is Thunder Hole, a small inlet carved out of the granite rocks. If the tidal conditions are just right, the waves will rush into the cavern below and violently spew out as high as 40 feet with thunderous roar. While pausing for photos, you will also enjoy a panoramic view of Otter Cliff and pristine Schoodic Peninsula in the distance.

Turning inland, you will then pass through lush pine forests while slowly ascending Cadillac Mountain. Its summit has the distinction of being the first place in the United States to see the sunrise from early October through early March. The sights are always spectacular from this vantage point, as it offers an unrivalled, 360-degree view of Bar Harbor, the islands beyond and Blue Hill Mountain.

Throughout this driving tour, the guide will describe the most striking geological features and the history of Acadia National Park. Be sure to look for birds along the way, as species ranging from bald eagles to scarlet tanagers live here.