10 Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park in the Fall

If it’s your first time visiting Acadia National Park, it can be hard to know where to begin. The park is more spread out than you might expect, with different sections that each offer something unique.

Some spots are only accessible by car, others by shuttle or bike, and the top sights aren’t always close together.

To help you get a feel for what’s worth seeing, I’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Acadia National Park. These are the highlights I’d recommend to any first-time visitor, plus a few extra stops that are especially beautiful in the fall!

Whether you’re here for the views, the hikes, or just a relaxing getaway, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.

Good to Know Before Your First Trip to Acadia

🍂 When is the best time to visit Acadia?

Late September to mid-October is ideal if you’re hoping to catch fall colors. Summer is the most popular season, so expect more crowds and limited parking. May and early June are quieter, but some facilities and services may not be running yet.

🕐 How much time do you need in the park?

Two to three days is great for a first visit. That gives you time to hike, explore the main highlights, enjoy a scenic drive, and spend time in Bar Harbor without rushing.

🚌 Should you use the shuttle or drive?

If you’re visiting between late June and early October, the Island Explorer shuttle is a great option, especially for popular spots like Sand Beach and Jordan Pond. Outside those dates, driving is your only option, but parking can fill up quickly during the day.

🎟 How much is the park entrance fee?

A 7-day vehicle pass costs $35 and covers everyone in your car. If you’re using the shuttle and not entering with a vehicle, you’ll need an individual pass instead, which is $20 per person. You can buy both online through the National Park’s website. Entrance is free with the America the Beautiful Pass.

☀️ Cadillac Mountain driving tips

From late May to late October, you’ll need a timed reservation to drive up Cadillac Mountain. The sunrise slots book out quickly, so plan ahead.

🏕 Where to stay in and around Acadia

Bar Harbor is the most popular place to stay, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and quick access to the park. Check rates at the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel, which is walkable to town and just a short drive from the main entrance.

If you’re up for camping, the park has several campgrounds, including Blackwoods, Seawall, and Schoodic Woods. All require advance reservations, especially in fall.

Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park

1. Drive up Cadillac Mountain for sunrise or sunset

Cadillac Mountain is one of the top things to do in Acadia National Park, and a must for first-time visitors. It’s the highest point in the park and, for part of the year, the first place in the US to see the sunrise.

If you’re visiting between late May and late October, you’ll need a timed vehicle reservation to drive up. This is different than your park entrance pass!

About 30% of reservations are released 90 days in advance, while the remaining 70% become available two days before, so keep that in mind and plan accordingly.

You can choose either a sunrise or daytime slot. Sunrise tickets are the most popular, so book early if that’s what you’re after!

The drive takes about 20 minutes from Bar Harbor, and there’s a small parking area at the top. Even if you don’t catch sunrise, sunset is a great alternative and usually much less crowded.

The views from the summit are incredible, especially in the fall when the colors stretch across the landscape.

2. Hike the Beehive Trail

The Beehive Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in Acadia National Park and a favorite for adventurous first-timers.

It’s short and steep, with iron rungs, granite steps, and a few narrow ledges that make it feel more like a climb than a walk in the woods.

The trail is only about 1.5 miles round-trip, but it gains elevation quickly and includes some exposed sections. If you’re scared of heights, this might not be the best choice, though the views at the top are absolutely worth it if you’re up for the challenge!

You’ll start the hike across from Sand Beach along the Park Loop Road. It’s best to go early in the morning or later in the day when crowds are lighter, especially in the fall when this is one of the most popular things to do in Acadia National Park.

If you’re not comfortable with the climb, you can take the easier Bowl Trail up the back side and still enjoy the views from the top without the rungs and ledges.

3. Cruise the Park Loop Road

Driving the Park Loop Road is one of the best ways to get an overview of Acadia, especially if it’s your first time visiting.

The full loop covers about 27 miles and connects many of the park’s top sights, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Jordan Pond, and Otter Cliff.

You can drive it in a couple of hours, but it’s worth taking your time. There are scenic pull-offs, short trails, and picnic areas along the way. In the fall, the foliage is especially beautiful, with great views near Eagle Lake and along the coast.

Keep in mind that part of the loop is one-way only. Once you pass Sand Beach, you’ll need to follow the road all the way around, so it’s smart to plan your stops ahead of time!

This is one of the most popular Acadia National Park attractions during peak season. To avoid the crowds, try driving it early in the morning or later in the day.

If you want a more guided experience, the self-guided audio tour is a great add-on. Alternatively, if you don’t want to deal with parking at all, the Island Explorer shuttle follows much of the same route and stops at all the major highlights.

4. Walk the Jordan Pond Path

Jordan Pond is one of the prettiest and most peaceful spots in Acadia, especially in the fall when the surrounding hills light up with color.

The flat trail around the shoreline is about 3.5 miles and is a great option for an easy walk with beautiful views the whole way.

The trail can get muddy in places and includes a long stretch of narrow boardwalk, so it’s best to wear proper shoes and go early if you want to avoid crowds. This is one of the most relaxing things to do near Bar Harbor and a favorite for all ages!

After your walk, stop at the Jordan Pond House for their famous popovers and tea. It’s a bit of a tradition and a great spot to take a break with a view of the Bubbles in the distance.

If you want to eat on the lawn, try to get there before the lunch rush. It fills up fast in peak season and parking is super hard to come by.

5. Bike or walk the Carriage Roads

The Carriage Roads are one of the most unique features in Acadia and a great way to experience the park at a slower pace.

This 45-mile network of wide, gravel paths winds through forests, around lakes, and across beautiful stone bridges.

You can explore them on foot or by bike. Biking is especially popular and a fun option if you’re looking for a break from the more rugged hiking trails.

Bikes can be rented in Bar Harbor, and the trails are well-marked with maps at most intersections.

This is one of the top things to do in Acadia in the fall when the trees along the paths are full of color! Some of the most scenic stretches are near Eagle Lake and around the loop that passes the Amphitheater and the Cobblestone Bridge.

The Carriage Roads are closed to cars, so it’s a peaceful place to explore without worrying about traffic.

6. Relax at Sand Beach

Sand Beach is one of the most popular stops in Acadia and the best place in the park to dip your toes in the water.

It’s a small stretch of soft sand tucked between rocky cliffs, and the views are especially pretty in the early morning light or late afternoon.

The water stays cold year-round, even in summer, but it’s still a great place to take a break, walk along the shore, or just enjoy the coastal scenery.

In the fall, it’s usually less crowded and a good spot to start a longer walk on the Ocean Path.

There’s a parking lot right above the beach, but it fills up fast. If you’re visiting during shuttle season, this is one of the most convenient Acadia National Park stops to reach by bus.

7. Check out Thunder Hole

Thunder Hole is one of the most famous viewpoints in the park, and it’s easy to see why. When the waves hit just right, water rushes into the small rocky inlet and crashes against the walls, creating a booming sound that gives the spot its name.

The effect is strongest a couple of hours before high tide, especially on windy days when the surf is up.

Sometimes you’ll just hear a soft splash, other times you’ll get soaked by the spray. Either way, it’s one of the most fun and dramatic sights in the park.

Thunder Hole is located right off the Ocean Path and is an easy stop, whether you’re walking or driving the Park Loop Road. It’s one of the most unique things to see in Acadia and a great photo stop for first-time visitors.

8. Climb the Precipice Trail

If you’re up for a challenge, the Precipice Trail is one of the most thrilling hikes in Acadia. This steep, exposed route climbs straight up the face of Champlain Mountain using iron rungs, ladders, and narrow ledges.

It’s not for anyone with a fear of heights, but the views are incredible from the top!

The trail is just under a mile to the summit, but it gains a lot of elevation quickly. You’ll need to use both hands for most of the climb. It’s considered one of the best hikes in Acadia National Park, but only if you’re confident on difficult terrain.

The Precipice is usually closed in spring and early summer for peregrine falcon nesting, so fall is one of the best times to go. For safety, it’s a one-way trail up. Most hikers descend via the Champlain North Ridge Trail or the Orange and Black Path.

Make sure the rocks are dry and conditions are clear before you go. This trail is all about timing and good weather.

9. Watch the sunset at Bass Harbor Head Light

Bass Harbor Head Light is one of the most photographed spots in Acadia and a great place to end your day.

The lighthouse sits on a rocky cliff on the quieter western side of Mount Desert Island and is especially beautiful at sunset.

There’s a small parking lot that fills up quickly, so it’s a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes before golden hour.

A short path leads to a viewpoint near the lighthouse, but for the classic photo angle, follow the path down the rocks to the left.

This is one of the best places to visit in Acadia if you’re looking for a scenic, low-effort stop. It’s also a good reason to explore more of the less-visited side of the park.

10. Explore Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia and the best place to base yourself if you want easy access to the park.

The town has a great mix of hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques, plus a lively waterfront that’s fun to explore before or after a day of hiking.

You don’t need a full day here, but it’s worth setting aside a few hours to walk around, grab a lobster roll, or relax by the harbor with an ice cream.

In the fall, the streets are lined with colorful trees, and the vibe is a little more laid-back than in peak summer.

It’s also one of the most charming small towns in Maine, and a great way to round out your Acadia itinerary with a little local flavor.

Where to Stay Near Acadia National Park

Bar Harbor is the most popular place to stay when visiting Acadia, and for good reason. It’s just minutes from the park entrance, has plenty of restaurants and shops, and is walkable if you’re visiting during shuttle season.

For a quieter base, consider Southwest Harbor or Northeast Harbor on the western side of Mount Desert Island.

Here are a few hotel and lodging options to consider:

• Bar Harbor Grand Hotel – Classic, New England–style hotel right in town with spacious rooms and a seasonal outdoor pool
• Best Western Acadia Park Inn – Quiet location just outside of town with clean rooms, a stunning outdoor pool, and easy access to the Park Loop Road
• Acadia Hotel – Downtown – Comfortable mid-range stay in the heart of Bar Harbor, walking distance to restaurants and shuttle stops
• Acadia Inn – Budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast and an easy drive to the park entrance
• Seawall Campground – Quiet national park campground on the western side of the island, perfect if you want to stay closer to nature

Where to Eat in Acadia National Park

Jordan Pond House is the only full-service restaurant inside Acadia National Park, so most visitors head into Bar Harbor for meals.

The park doesn’t have any other cafés or food vendors, so if you’re planning to spend a full day hiking or exploring, be sure to pack snacks or a picnic.

Bar Harbor has a great mix of restaurants, cafes, and casual seafood spots, and it’s just a short drive from most of the main park areas. Here are some great places to eat in and around Bar Harbor:

• Jordan Pond House – Classic spot inside the park known for popovers and tea with a view of the Bubbles
• Side Street Cafe – Laid-back spot with comfort food, lobster rolls, and great cocktails
• Thrive Juice Bar & Kitchen – Healthy breakfast and lunch bowls, smoothies, and gluten-free options
• Havana – Upscale dinner spot with a creative menu and strong wine list
• Cafe This Way – Popular breakfast and brunch place tucked off the main drag with cozy vibes
• 2 Cats Bar Harbor – Bright, quirky spot known for hearty breakfasts, fresh-baked biscuits, and strong coffee
• Rosalie’s Pizza – Local favorite for a quick and easy pizza night