Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park has been on my bucket list for the longest time. So, this summer Lucy and I made the drive north to visit this stunning national park. Our trip started from West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park and included a quick stop over at Niagara Falls, another bucket list destination.
Travelling full time means that most of my trips are planned a week or two before I go which limits accessing sought after National Park camping spots. But thanks to my favorite app, Campendium I was able to find a beautiful spot at Bass Harbor Campground. This campground was within walking distance to the Bass Harbor Light Station and within a short drive to the Ship Harbor Trail and Wonderland Trail which were both short and relatively easy hikes with stunning views.
I arrived in Acadia in early June which meant that the park shuttles were not yet running. I was a little bummed because driving and parking Lucy can make things a bit harder. However, we persevered. My best tip for visiting any National Park is to get there early. You can see so much more and not have to battle the crowds, even in the off season.
My first full day of my Acadia adventure included hiking around Jordan Pond which was lovely. There are a few RV spots in this campground, unfortunately cars often take them. I was lucky enough to grab one, and when leaving I held it for another RV. Us large vehicles have to stick together.
Next stop was the beautiful Bar Harbor. I parked in the designated RV spots and wandered around town visiting several local shops and stopping for a mandatory lobster roll at Frenchman Bay Lobster Rolls. The roll was delicious and I enjoyed while sitting in the grass at Agamont Park.
Day 2 I spent hiking, driving and just looking at the amazing views on Park Loop Road. Because the shuttles were not running yet, the road was really busy. I was able to find a few space to park along the road and hopped out to take a bunch of short walks along the coastline. The weather was beautiful and the views were stunning! I did figure out that the further down Park Loop Road I went, the quieter things were and the parking was MUCH better!
On Day 3 I only got about a half day in the park due to weather and work, but that’s ok. Any day in a National Park is a good day for me. I decided to try out the 2 hikes closest to my campground. The Ship Harbor Trail and Wonderland Trail. The Ship Harbor Trail is a short 1.3 mile figure out that takes you along the stunning harbor. This trail is great for families and beginner hikers like me. Next up was the Wonderland Trail. This trail was so much fun. The 1.3 mile loop was level and easy, but in the middle section, the trail open up to the rocky shoreline. You are able to walk around and explore the incredible which I did and had a wonderful time.
Acadia National Park was everything I hoped it would be. I hope as I continue on my journey and improve my hiking skills I can come back one day and try some of the more challenging hikes.
Safe Travels,
Heather
