We love national parks. From their remote locations to the history of their founding to the active outdoor pursuits they provide. They are well-suited destinations for what we aspire to offer at Zephyr Adventures. This past summer we enjoyed our first-ever tour to Acadia National Park—a hiking adventure—that proved easy, lovely, and a lot of fun. What we realized though, is that this area has so many things to offer, it is actually better suited for an Acadia National Park Multisport Adventure! So, what are the best activities?
The Attraction of Hiking in Acadia
Hiking is a major draw in Acadia National Park due to its wide range of options catering to different interests and skill levels. The park boasts over 150 miles of trails, including 45 miles of scenic carriage roads created by John D. Rockefeller and his family when the park was established. Hiking in Acadia National Park offers stunning views where the rugged beauty of the Maine coastline meets tranquil forests and granite peaks. Trails leading to the island’s peaks provide excellent views of the sea, while coastal trails offer access to beaches and tidal pools. Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast, offers hikers unforgettable sweeping views and is popular at sunrise.
Biking the Carriage Roads of the Park
One of the great things about the park is its proximity to the town of Bar Harbor, where most visitors usually stay. We can easily rent bikes a few blocks from the hotel and be in the park within two miles. Once there, we can enjoy endless biking opportunities. Biking on the carriage roads in Acadia National Park offers a unique and peaceful way to experience the park’s natural beauty. These well-maintained gravel pathways, originally constructed by John D. Rockefeller Jr., meander through lush forests, over elegant stone bridges, and alongside serene lakes and ponds. With miles of interconnected roads, cyclists can enjoy a relaxing ride without the hassle of cars. The gradual inclines and well-marked routes make exploring the carriage roads suitable for riders of all skill levels.
Don’t Forget the Water
While we focus a lot on how great the trails are within the park, we cannot forget that this trip takes place along the coast! And, with that comes a lot of opportunities for activities and learning about this location steeped in maritime New England history. Kayaking in Frenchman Bay, amidst the stunning Porcupine Islands, is an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty here. As you paddle through the calm, clear waters, you’re surrounded by a panorama of rocky, forested islands that rise steeply from the sea. The experience is both peaceful and awe-inspiring, with the chance to spot wildlife like seals basking on the rocks or bald eagles soaring overhead. Kayaking among the Porcupine Islands offers a close, intimate connection to the rugged coastal landscape that defines Acadia’s wild beauty.
In the Southwest Harbor hop aboard the 33’ wooden lobster boat, the Elizabeth T. to explore the glacially carved Somes Sound Fjord, with the surrounding mountain peaks in Acadia National Park as a backdrop. From the water, you’ll enjoy great views of the grand summer “cottages” owned by wealthy “Rusticators” from Northeast Harbor and Seal Harbor, and the Bear Island Lighthouse, one of the prettiest lighthouses along the Maine Coast. A highlight of the boat ride is getting to pull a lobster trap along with learning how the traps work, about the biology of lobsters, and how lobstermen are protecting this thriving industry while harvesting 120 million pounds of lobster annually.
The Unique Cultural Hub on the Coast of Maine
The park’s proximity to Bar Harbor adds another fascinating dimension to touring this area. Bar Harbor is a lively coastal town with a rich cultural heritage shaped by its maritime history, artistic community, and deep connection to nature. Initially, Bar Harbor was a popular summer destination for America’s wealthy during the Gilded Age, but it has since transformed into a charming tourist spot that retains its old-world appeal, with a mix of souvenir shops and ice cream parlors. The town’s ambiance is defined by its historic buildings, local cuisine featuring fresh seafood, and a thriving arts scene.
Join us for this one of a kind New England adventure on the Acadia National Park Multisport Adventure.