Acadia National Park is a jewel of the North Atlantic Coast. Acadia has multiple attractions and offers plenty of adventurous activities that are worth enjoying. You can hike up to Cardillac Mountain, enjoy the Sand Beach, or simply drive along Park Loop Road. More than 3 million people visit Acadia National Park every year and you should know that it is worth visiting any time of the year. Spring offers a pleasant experience, while the winters offer breathtaking scenic views. Here we will talk about the best time to visit Acadia National Park and some other things you must keep in mind to have a convenient experience.
Best Time to Visit Acadia National Park
Spring (March, April, and May)
The late spring season has dried out temperatures which can be pleasant and divine. However, it is also bug season and you should pay attention to how rainy it has been. By Memorial Day, most of the island is open and you can considerably plan a trip to the park.
Summer (June, July, and August)
The weather is pleasant in July and August, but these months are also the busiest months of the year. Most families often visit Acadia National Park before school starts and it can be crowded during these months. The peak season ends with a bang when Labor day hits.
Fall (September, October, and November)
Each season provides a different perspective and you can always plan a visit to the Acadia National Park according to the itineraries. The weather is crisp and the crowds are light during the fall season. If you are looking for the best time to visit Acadia National Park to avoid the crowds, you can consider planning a trip during these months. It is generally between October 13-October 25 when the fall foliage peaks. You can check http://mainefoliage.com/ for current conditions and know more before you plan your visit.
Winter (December, January, February)
You should note that the peak season is from June to October. From November to May, the park is open with limited access. Moreover, there are not many visitors during the winter season. It could be the perfect time to visit and explore the amazing snowfall. The average snowfall on Mount Desert Island is 61 inches. However, it tends to melt quickly. You should check all these factors before deciding the best time to visit Acadia National Park.
Most Affordable Time to Visit Acadia National Park
Earlier, the park used to have free admission and entrance from November 1 to April 30. However, it has now started charging a fee of $30 which is valid every day and doesn’t change from season to season. The cost of accommodations may be higher during summers. If you are planning to save extra bucks, you can consider visiting during other months.
Best Time to Visit Acadia National Park for Good Weather
No doubt, the weather can either make or break your experience. You can consider visiting during July and August for pleasant weather. Besides this, you can experience an array of colors during the changing season of September and October which you should never miss out on.
Best Time to Visit Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain offers spectacular sunset views and is certainly the first place that you must see at the park. You will have to reserve the spot via an online portal to visit the mountains between May 25 and October 22. The rule is only applicable to vehicles, and not the hikers.
Best Time to Drive the Park Loop Road
The road is open year-round, but you should certainly check the weather conditions as they can impact your driving experience.
Best Time to Visit Sand Beach
The summer water temperature at Sand Beach is mostly in the mid-50s. You will not find the beach overcrowded and can plan to lounge on the beach for some time. Make sure you pack proper footwear and other essentials for a convenient experience.
Best Time to Visit Acadia National Park – Summing Up
The best time to visit Acadia National Park may certainly depend on what you are expecting from the trip. If you want pleasant weather, you should consider visiting during a specific time. We have created this comprehensive guide according to the best months and times for the visit. Check our guide and plan your visit to the Acadia National Park accordingly. Stay tuned to Scott and Ben for more such tips and travel-related updates.