2 Days in Acadia National Park: A Complete Fall Itinerary

Wondering how to spend 2 days in Acadia National Park in the fall? This stunning park is full of hiking trails, rugged coastline, and scenic drives, and the vibrant foliage makes every view even more unforgettable.

In this guide, you’ll find a relaxed but still adventure-filled plan that covers the best viewpoints, trails, and photo spots, with time to explore the charming town of Bar Harbor in between.

From sunrise on Cadillac Mountain to sunset at Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, this 2-day itinerary includes scenic coastal walks, popovers at Jordan Pond House, and some of Acadia’s most iconic hikes.

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Day 1: Coastal Views and Iconic Trails

Quick breakfast in Bar Harbor

Kick off your 2 days in Acadia with something fast so you can be on the trail early!

Coffee Hound is great for a latte and a breakfast sandwich to go, while Morning Glory Bakery has fresh pastries if you want something sweet.

The aim this morning is to fuel up and head out quickly so you can beat the crowds at Beehive or The Bowl. Parking fills up fast near Sand Beach, especially in October.

Beehive Trail or Bowl Trail

If your Acadia National Park 2 day itinerary includes hiking, the Beehive Trail is the perfect place to start.

It’s a short 1.4-mile loop, but don’t let the distance fool you! The climb involves iron rungs, narrow ledges, and steep drop-offs.

It’s thrilling if you’re okay with heights, and the panoramic view over Sand Beach, Great Head, and the surrounding fall foliage is worth the effort. The trail is very popular, so aim to start early in the morning.

If you’d rather skip the heights, the Bowl Trail is a scenic 1.5-mile hike that takes you to a peaceful mountain lake framed by colorful trees in October. It’s an easier walk but still beautiful, and it starts from the same parking area.

You can also combine the two by taking The Bowl first, then connecting to the Beehive from the backside. This way you avoid the iron rung section but still end up at the same stunning viewpoint at the top!

Both trails start from the Sand Beach parking lot along Park Loop Road. If the lot is full, you can park at the nearby Gorham Mountain trailhead and walk over.

Ocean Path

After your first hike, follow the coastline on the Ocean Path, one of the most scenic walks in Acadia National Park.

This easy trail runs for about 2 miles one way between Sand Beach and Otter Point, with plenty of spots to stop for photos along the way.

You’ll pass several highlights, including Thunder Hole, where waves crash into a narrow inlet and create a loud boom, and Otter Cliffs, one of the highest headlands on the North Atlantic coast.

The walk is flat and accessible, making it a nice change of pace after the Beehive or The Bowl.

Since this stretch of Park Loop Road is one-way, it works best to walk part of the Ocean Path as an out-and-back from Sand Beach, or to drive between each viewpoint and explore on foot from the pull-off areas. That way, you can see it all without having to loop back around.

Lunch at Jordan Pond House

If you are spending 2 days in Acadia, make sure Jordan Pond House is on your list. This historic restaurant is famous for its popovers served with butter and jam, and it’s the perfect place to relax after a morning of hiking and exploring the coastline.

The dining room has big windows overlooking the pond, and there’s also an outdoor lawn where you can eat with a view of the Bubbles in the background.

If you’re visiting in October, try to arrive for an early lunch to avoid the midday rush. The popovers pair perfectly with a bowl of seafood chowder or a fresh salad, and the views alone make it worth the stop.

Jordan Pond Loop Trail

After lunch, walk it off with a stroll around the Jordan Pond Loop Trail. This easy 3.5-mile path circles the shoreline and offers constant views of the pond and surrounding mountains.

In the fall, the reflection of red, orange, and yellow leaves in the water makes it one of the most photogenic spots in the park!

It’s a great mid-day activity for any 2 day Acadia itinerary since it’s flat, well-maintained, and not too strenuous. The path is a mix of packed dirt and boardwalks, and it’s easy to follow.

Plan for about 1.5 hours at a relaxed pace, especially if you want to stop for photos along the way.

Sunset at Cadillac Mountain

Cadillac Mountain is famous for being one of the first places in the United States to see the sunrise, which makes it one of the most popular spots in Acadia.

The problem is that sunrise reservations can be hard to get, especially in peak foliage season! That’s why we decided to go up for sunset instead, and it was just as impressive.

The late afternoon light over the hills and islands is beautiful, and you still get those wide-open views the mountain is known for.

To drive to the summit, you’ll need a vehicle reservation through the National Park Service’s online system. This is different than your regular park entrance pass, and you’ll not be able to drive up without a reservation!

Tickets are released in two batches; 30% of the tickets are available 90 days in advance, and the rest two days before the date. Each ticket is for a specific time window, so for sunset, choose an afternoon entry time!

Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to sunset to find a spot and watch the light change. It can be windy and chilly at the top in October, so bring an extra layer.

Dinner in Bar Harbor

Wrap up your first day with dinner in Bar Harbor. If you’re after something casual, Side Street Café is always a solid choice for lobster rolls, burgers, and comfort food.

For a more upscale evening, Havana serves creative dishes with a focus on local seafood and seasonal ingredients. Both are right in town, so you can wander around afterward or grab dessert before heading back to your hotel.

If you’re visiting in October, it’s worth making a reservation since many places fill up quickly during peak foliage season.

Day 2: Carriage Roads, Hidden Gems, and Lighthouse Sunset

Breakfast in Bar Harbor

After yesterday’s early start, take your time this morning with a proper breakfast in town. This Way Café is known for generous portions and creative specials, while 2 Cats Bar Harbor is loved for its homemade biscuits and hearty plates.

Both places can get busy in October, so it’s worth going early or calling ahead for a table. It’s the perfect way to start a more relaxed day before exploring the quieter parts of Acadia.

Carriage Roads

Spend the late morning exploring the Carriage Roads, a 45-mile network of wide, crushed-stone paths built by John D. Rockefeller Jr.

They’re closed to vehicles, which makes them perfect for walking or cycling. In the fall, the stone bridges and tree-lined stretches are surrounded by bright foliage, and it’s one of the most peaceful ways to experience Acadia.

One of the most popular routes is the Eagle Lake loop, which has incredible views and several photo-worthy bridges.

Another great option is the section between Eagle Lake and Witch Hole Pond. Both are easy to reach and have parking nearby.

Biking lets you cover more ground, but walking is just as rewarding if you want to take your time with photos.

You can rent bikes in Bar Harbor or bring your own. Even on busy weekends, the Carriage Roads feel quiet compared to the main park trails, so they’re a great way to enjoy some space before the afternoon.

Scenic Trail Option: Ship Harbor, Wonderland, or South Bubble

After the Carriage Roads, you can choose one more trail if you still have the energy. For an easy coastal walk, Ship Harbor Nature Trail is a 1.4-mile loop with rocky shoreline views and plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery.

Nearby, the Wonderland Trail is another flat and easy option that leads through a spruce forest to the ocean. Both are great for a relaxed pace and quiet atmosphere.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more challenging, the South Bubble Trail is a short but steep climb with one of the most iconic views in Acadia.

From the top, you’ll see Jordan Pond stretched out below and, in October, a blanket of fall colors in every direction. It’s a quick hike but can be slippery if the rocks are wet, so good shoes are a must.

No matter which trail you pick, this is a nice way to slow down and enjoy a less crowded part of the park before heading toward Bass Harbor for sunset.

Explore Bar Harbor

Spend a little time in Bar Harbor before heading out for sunset. The town is small and walkable, with plenty of shops, galleries, and cafes to wander through. It’s a nice change of pace after being on the trails all morning.

The Shore Path is a flat, half-mile walk along the waterfront with views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands. If your Acadia National Park 2 day itinerary falls in October, the path is especially pretty with fall colors framing the water.

You can also grab a mid-afternoon snack or coffee before the evening. There are lots of options right in the center of town, so you won’t need to move your car once you find a parking spot.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

Finish your trip with sunset at Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. The white lighthouse sits on a rocky shoreline, and it’s one of the most photographed places in Acadia.

Parking is limited, so if your two days in Acadia fall during peak foliage season, aim to get there at least an hour before sunset. From the lot, you can take a short paved path to one viewing spot or follow the wooden stairs down to the rocks for the classic photo angle.

It’s a simple stop, but the view is a great way to end your trip before heading back to Bar Harbor for dinner.

Dinner in Bar Harbor

Wrap up your two days in Acadia with one last dinner in Bar Harbor. The Reading Room is a great pick if you want ocean views and a more upscale atmosphere, while Geddy’s is a laid-back option with lobster, pizza, and casual seafood dishes.

If you’re visiting in October, it’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially if you have your heart set on a particular restaurant.