Maine 2018 - Bar Harbor & Acadia

One my second full day in Maine, I went to one of the places that topped my list, Acadia National Park. This is one of the nations most beautiful places on the east coast. It is located on Mount Desert Island accessible via State Route 3. On a map it looks pretty close to Camden, where I was staying, but only if you go by water. Maine has many little islands along the coast and roads are built on the easiest terrane so in order to get where you want to go, you must allow plenty of driving time.

I didn't stop on my route but drove straight to Bar Harbor. It is a very quaint little town built solely on the tourist trade, with little shops dotting the main thorough fair, medium sized harbor, hotels, and tours to the park. The first thing I did was look around for some breakfast, so I stopped into an Irish Pub and ordered beer and a halibut sandwich. After my delicious brunch, I took a stroll  through town.

Downtown Bar Harbor

Ivy Manor Inn, Bar Harbor, Maine

 I didn't spend much time on Bar Harbor before I found the office for Acadia National Park, bought a pass and got instructions on where to go and what to see. The day was rather gray and misty but I made the most of it. I drove into the park. There are many hiking trails, carriage roads, and tours on horseback but most of those began early in the morning and I was too late. Despite the weather and limited time, I found the park enchanting and beautiful.

Autumn in Acadia National Park, Maine

I drove through the park and stopped at all the points of interest. The fall colors were just beginning to peak, yet the forest was thick with leaves. Flowers of all types covered the ground. Ferns were turning bright orange and gold, and the evergreens and birch made a fantastic home for creatures of all types. Driving through the park, visitors see all types of terrain, from rocky seashore to thick native forest, and even the top of Cadillac Mountain. Unfortunately, the day I visited, the weather was not cooperating. I got to the top of the mountain and found myself in a cloud. The mist was so thick, the breeze was chilly and the wind sharp. There was no visibility for photography. Nevertheless, I felt a profound sense of oneness with the mountain and a fresh respect for nature. I highly recommend spending at least a day at Acadia when visiting Maine. It is a must see and feel experience.

After spending a great deal of time in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, I drove back to Camden and arrived in time to once again enjoy waterfront dining. I had broiled scallops, prepared just right, then wandered over to the bar for a beer before heading back to my Airbnb for the night.