Wow! While only visiting a handful of national parks thus far, I truly understand why Acadia is always top ranked in travel destinations. Perfectly located next to quaint Bar Harbor, perfectly located to hiking trails and biking trails, and perfectly located next to the ocean for sunbathing, swimming and water activities…it literally has it all!
This blog is a little different as I’m going to touch upon a couple of my favorite things we did with our pups Walter and Penelope! This was our first dog vacation as it was recommended to us by friends as their favorite place to go with their dogs. Overall Acadia is extremely dog friendly, only a few trails exclude dogs because they require us humans to use iron rings in various areas and Bar Harbor also allows dogs basically everywhere as most eating establishments have outdoor dining options.
Favorite Trails
Ocean Path Trail is a 4.4 mile out and back trail next to…the ocean! This path gives stunning views of Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Point. All of these attractions along the path can be visited by driving and parking if you are not up for hiking but want to see some spectacular views! The terrain is a mixture of concrete, packed gravel, staircases and some rocky climbing. Plenty of spots to pull to the side and sit down for a snack or picnic lunch along the way.
Jordan Pond Path is a 3.3 mile loop and perhaps the pups favorite! This path consists of forested areas with uneven wooden boardwalks, large rocks, packed gravel and footbridges which is perhaps why the pups loved it so much…forever changing! It of course circles Jordan Pond providing beautiful views the entire time. It is very busy and may take time to find parking but it is well worth it!
Cadillac Summit Loop Trail is a 0.3 mile loop located at the top of Cadillac Mountain. Cadillac Mountain Summit of course can be reached via hiking or by reserving a pass online at a specific entry time. Once driving to the top this short loop trail is a great way to take in the miles of views from various angles.
Gotham Mountain Trial is a 1.6 miles out and back trail that was my absolute favorite! Perhaps because it was the perfect amount of challenge (upward elevation) while being short so you quickly reach an amazing reward of beautiful views! I actually enjoyed these views more than Cadillac Mountain because you’re a little closer to the action down below.
This trail can also be reached while doing the Ocean Path Trail as you pass by and looped to connect back to Sand Beach.
Cadillac North Ride Trail is a 4.2 mile loop to the top of Cadillac mountain. I thought this was the most challenging hike as it required concentration with some rock scrabbling and of course we went in a light mist making things slippery. Probably more suitable for larger dogs with longer stamina as my two did great but was a lot of elevation and larger climbs/jumps.
For those of you interested in biking while visiting Acadia, visit the Carriage roads. These carriage roads have many different routes at different lengths. My favorite which we chose to walk by foot was around Eagle Lake!
