| Spring and Fall Visits |
| Winter Visits |
Winter is a time of contrast in Acadia. The turbulence of the sea at Thunder Hole during a winter storm gives way to the serenity of deer walking through snow covered forests. Leafless hardwood trees reveal the forest that was hidden during most of the year, while frozen ponds seal their secrets until spring thaw. Whether hiking, cross country skiing, or snowmobiling, winter is an excellent time to discover Acadia's beauties.
Due to Acadia's coastal location, snow and weather conditions change rapidly. Temperatures vary from mid-30s to below zero. The park averages 60" of snow annually. For the latest in weather information, call the local weather phone line at (207)667-8910, call the park at (207)288-3338, or check here.
Begin your visit at the winter information center at Park Headquarters, open every day except Thanksgiving, December 24, 25, and January 1. Located three miles west of Bar Harbor on Route 233, the Headquarters Information Center's hours are 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Information about what Inns, bed and breakfasts and other accommodations is available here.
THERE IS NO BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING AT ACADIA NATIONAL PARK.
45 miles of carriage roads, and 41 miles of unplowed park roads are suggested for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Skiing on hiking trails can be difficult or impossible due to:
Ski equipment and rentals are available in some of the local communities.
Ski track is sometimes laid down by volunteers on sections of the carriage roads when snowfall exceeds four inches.
Maine fishing licenses are purchased in local town offices, and some local businesses.
Only rarely will lakes freeze smoothly and free of snow.
Although the state and county roads on Mount Desert Island are plowed in the winter, most of the Park Loop Road remains closed due to snow and ice. Two short sections of the Park Loop Road stay open by the coast and near Jordan Pond.
The Headquarters Information Center is open daily from 8:00AM to 4:30PM from November 1 to April 30. The Hulls Cove Visitor Center is open daily from 8:00AM to 4:30PM from May 1 to October 31. Park staff can assist you in planning your visit.
Spring can be foggy with temperatures ranging between 30 and 70 degrees. Blackflies are common in late May and June. Mosquitoes can also be bothersome. Wear light-colored clothing, long sleeve shirts and long pants for protection.
Fall temperatures can range from low 70s during the day to freezing during the night. Come prepared for all types of weather, from sun to fog, from downpours to flurries.
Autumn foliage often peaks during the first couple weeks of October. Weather conditions over the summer, such as drought, may alter the time that the leaves peak.
Blackwoods Campground is open year round. Reservations are required mid-June to mid-September. Sites cost $15 per night. The rest of the year sites are first-come, first-served. Fees vary depending on the time of year.
Seawall Campground is open late May to late September. Drive-up sites cost $13 per night; walk-ins cost $8 per night. Both are first-come, first-served.
The Park Loop Road will open in the spring when the threat of snow has passed for the season. The Park Loop Road closes when snow conditions make travel hazardous. A two mile section of the Park Loop Road remains open year round.
Fees are collected May 1 to October 31 north of Sand Beach on the Park Loop Road. This seven day pass costs $5 per vehicle or $3 per person without a vehicle. A $15 Acadia Annual Pass, a $25 annual Golden Eagle Passport, or a $10 lifetime Golden Age Passport is also available.
In early spring and late fall, trails may be icy or muddy. Please keep safety in mind. Leave a discrete note inside your vehicle detailing your plans. Carry a trail map and water. Both, as well as more detailed trail guides, are available at the Headquarters Information Center or the Hulls Cove Visitor Center.
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