The Perfect Crowd-Free Acadia Trip Itinerary
With over 4 million visitors a year, Acadia National Park is the sixth most visited National Park in the country - but also one of the smallest. While the sights are spectacular, summer in Acadia also brings long lines, limited parking, and lots of overcrowding. If you're looking for a way to visit the area without dodging tourists, read on for our crowd-free Acadia trip itinerary!
Ravens Nest on the Schoodic Peninsula.
Day 1: Schoodic Peninsula
Less than an hour northeast of Mt. Desert Island, you'll find the quieter, more pristine section of Acadia National Park - Schoodic Peninsula. While the peninsula offers many hiking trails, our favorite way to experience it is by bike. Rent a bike at nearby Sea Schoodic Kayak & Bike, then head to Schoodic Loop Road. This biker friendly loop runs the entire length of Schoodic Point, and takes you past breathtaking views such as the Ravens Nest. Although highly photographed, Ravens Nest does not have signage with directions, so drop this point into Google Maps to find it: 44.353189205954536, -68.07395616246754.
After a long day on the Schoodic Loop, head to a favorite spot for delicious food - The Pickled Wrinkle. Offering everything from pizza and burgers to unique snacks like dulse chips, this spot is a favorite place to unwind after a long day.
Day 2: Southwest Harbor
Back on Mt Desert Island, there's plenty to do aside from drive the heavily traveled Park Loop Road. Head to Southwest Harbor for some hikes that are friendly for all levels - Ship Harbor Trail and Wonderland Trail. Both will be far less crowded than the popular hikes off Park Loop Road, and they feature ocean views that are just as stunning.
After a day of hiking, explore the harbor and stop at Peter Trout's Tavern and Inn for dinner. Their menu features plenty of Maine classics, but the true star is the Nashville style fried chicken sandwich - hands down, this is our favorite fried chicken sandwich in Maine!
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.
Day 3: Lighthousts & Lobster Rolls
You can't leave Acadia without seeing the famous Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse - a beautiful lighthouse perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean. Get there early before the crowds set in, and then head to Charlotte's for their legendary lobster roll before driving back down the coast.