One of the most remote wilderness areas in the eastern United States is Acadia National Park, off the coast of southern Maine. The largest region of the park is set within Mount Desert Island. Magnificent scenery encompasses views of the North Atlantic Ocean, lighthouses, forested bluffs, and dramatic rocky shorelines swept by tumultuous waves. The climate can be foggy during the summer months, and ice storms occur in spring and winter.

Driving to Acadia (located 50 miles southeast of Bangor, Maine) is possible by taking I-95 to Route 3, which circles most of the island. The land consists of small lakes, mountainous areas, and at the center, Somes Sound. Smaller islands, close to Mount Desert, can be accessed by ferry or boat service. Acadia also has a seasonal bus system that can take visitors to various destinations, thereby reducing the amount of traffic in the park. From May 1 to October 31, the park charges an entrance fee ($20 per vehicle or $5 per individual), good for 7 days, which helps take care of the land and facilities.

Some of the most popular destinations are Sieur de Monts Nature Center, Seal Harbor, and Cadillac Mountain. The park has an amazing variety of wildlife, and marine animals such as whales, seals, and otters can be seen from viewing areas. Many birds populate the main island such as hawks, falcons, loons, and warblers; colonies of the endangered Atlantic Puffins nest in the smaller islands.

Activities include guided tours, cruises, camping, biking on historic carriage roads, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking nature paths. Trails can be very rugged, so the park advises to hike with a friend or group, and carry adequate supplies, such as flashlight, compass, and map. Warm clothing should also be packed, in case of changing weather. Swimming is permitted in two areas: Sand Beach, on the ocean, and Echo Lake Beach, a freshwater lake on the island’s west side. Winter recreation is more limited as mountain hiking can be treacherous, but activities such as cross-country skiing and ice-skating are possible in designated areas.

Accommodations vary from camping within the park to exclusive oceanfront resorts. For a remote nature experience, Acadia maintains the Blackwoods and Seawall Campgrounds (no water and electric hookups), allowing visitors to camp in wooded grounds, listening to the birds and enjoying fresh ocean air. Offering elegance and a wide range of amenities, the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel and Conference Center is a mile from the park’s entrance, in Bar Harbor, Maine. The hotel promises sea views, and luxurious rooms and suites for individuals, couples, or families.

A national treasure, Acadian National Park harbors rare wildlife, and displays unsurpassed beauty in its Atlantic coast shorelines. This park guarantees an unforgettable wilderness experience for the whole family.