It’s been a long few months all over the world. As cities and states slowly re-open, we’re heartened at how hard folks are working to keep everyone safe. While it might not be time to gather in large groups just yet, we love that going outside is becoming a bit easier. With increased openings in Maine comes the re-opening of Acadia National Park. While we’re excited, it’s important to remember that some new rules will be in place. Read through these and enjoy your visit!
Maine’s only National Park is a beautiful example of why the state is so great. With a mix of coast, mountains and forest there’s truly no better place to visit if you want to take in a piece of all parts of Maine. After being closed for some time due to COVID-19, it’s now open with some changes in rules.
oakleyoriginals / Flickr
The Park Loop Road is open, but the Seal Cove Road remains closed.
npsclimatechange / Flickr For folks who want to experience the park without getting off the beaten path, the Park Loop Road is a great option. It’s easy, beautiful and offers one of the best ways to see the sights.
However, the Island Explorer Bus Service is suspended indefinitely. There’s been no word on when (or if) this will resume in 2020.
jstephenconn / Flickr You can still drive yourself through the park, but remember that you’ll need to find parking whenever you’d like to stop and see something.
The beautiful carriage roads were scheduled to open June 5th for pedestrian use, but they remain closed to bicycle and equestrian access.
Sara Löwgren / Flickr While this is surely a bummer for folks who look forward to these cycling routes, this might be the year to see things in a different way. And, stay tuned for updated information to see when access opens up completely.
All campgrounds remain closed and no reservations are being taken.
Tim Reed / Flickr While the opening of campgrounds is still uncertain, it won’t be before July 1st.
Some picnic areas are open, others are still closed.
sonnycohen / Flickr The Fabbri Picnic Area is open as of June 1st and the Pretty Marsh Picnic Area is set to open on June 9th. However, the Bear Brook Picnic Area and the Thompson Island Picnic Area are closed with no re-opening dates released just yet.
The good news is that, with the exception of those closed for wildlife needs, all hiking trails are open!
lars-zyx/ / Flickr The park has found a few areas with adult Peregrine Falcon activity. While they practice courtship and pre-nesting behavior the following trails are closed: Precipice Trail, Jordan Cliffs Trail, Valley Cove Trail, and part of the Orange & Black Path.
The popular Hulls Cove Visitor Center is now open.
daveynin / Flickr But keep in mind there are limited information services happening in an outdoor setting. They’ll be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day.
The beloved Jordan Pond House restaurant is now open for takeout.
rmfleming2175 / Flickr You can visit each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Restrooms are (mostly) open.
off-the-road / Flickr Those along the Park Loop Road opened on June 1st, while those associated with the Carriage Roads are scheduled to open June 9th.
While we don’t believe much will change, be sure to check the official website (below) to keep up-to-date.
ugardener / Flickr And remember that those from away still much quarantine for 14-days when they arrive. Gatherings of 50 people or more are still prohibited through August.
You can learn more about Acadia National Park and how the phased re-opening plan will work on the official website. If you prefer to avoid places like this, we certainly don’t blame you. The good news is that you can still experience the park from home. You can now tour Acadia National Park in Maine from the comfort of your own home! Why visit? If you’re a hiker the reason is simple! You can explore over 150 miles of hiking trails at Acadia National Park!
oakleyoriginals / Flickr
npsclimatechange / Flickr
For folks who want to experience the park without getting off the beaten path, the Park Loop Road is a great option. It’s easy, beautiful and offers one of the best ways to see the sights.
jstephenconn / Flickr
You can still drive yourself through the park, but remember that you’ll need to find parking whenever you’d like to stop and see something.
Sara Löwgren / Flickr
While this is surely a bummer for folks who look forward to these cycling routes, this might be the year to see things in a different way. And, stay tuned for updated information to see when access opens up completely.
Tim Reed / Flickr
While the opening of campgrounds is still uncertain, it won’t be before July 1st.
sonnycohen / Flickr
The Fabbri Picnic Area is open as of June 1st and the Pretty Marsh Picnic Area is set to open on June 9th. However, the Bear Brook Picnic Area and the Thompson Island Picnic Area are closed with no re-opening dates released just yet.
lars-zyx/ / Flickr
The park has found a few areas with adult Peregrine Falcon activity. While they practice courtship and pre-nesting behavior the following trails are closed: Precipice Trail, Jordan Cliffs Trail, Valley Cove Trail, and part of the Orange & Black Path.
daveynin / Flickr
But keep in mind there are limited information services happening in an outdoor setting. They’ll be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day.
rmfleming2175 / Flickr
You can visit each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
off-the-road / Flickr
Those along the Park Loop Road opened on June 1st, while those associated with the Carriage Roads are scheduled to open June 9th.
ugardener / Flickr
And remember that those from away still much quarantine for 14-days when they arrive. Gatherings of 50 people or more are still prohibited through August.
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Address: Acadia National Park, Maine, USA
