4-Day Nature Itinerary in Acadia National Park

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Bar Harbor, ME

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe This Way

Start your day with their famous blueberry pancakes and locally roasted coffee to fuel your adventure.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Acadia National Park Visitor Center

Visit the park's information center where you can gather maps and insight into the best hiking trails and viewpoints.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Hiking the Jordan Pond Loop

Enjoy a scenic 3.5-mile hike around Jordan Pond with the stunning backdrop of the Bubbles mountains.
Free, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Jordan Pond House

Indulge in their world-famous popovers with jam while overlooking the beautiful pond.
USD 20, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Cadillac Mountain

Drive up to Cadillac Mountain and take in breathtaking views from the highest point on the east coast.
USD 30 (vehicle entrance fee), 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Scenic Drive through Park Loop Road

Enjoy the views and pull off at various scenic overlooks throughout the park's 27-mile loop.
Included in vehicle entrance fee, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Chart Room

Savor fresh seafood like lobster rolls and clam chowder while overlooking the harbor.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Full Day in Acadia

Acadia National Park

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Jeannie's Breakfast

Try their famous breakfast burritos to start your day right before another adventure.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Biking the Carriage Roads

Rent a bike and explore the park's picturesque carriage roads that weave through the forest and along lakes.
USD 30 (bike rental), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic with local deli sandwiches and enjoy it surrounded by nature at a scenic spot.
USD 12, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Trek to Beehive Trail

Ascend one of the park’s most popular trails featuring iron rungs and stunning views near the summit.
Free, 2-3 hours

5:00 PM

Relax at Sand Beach

Unwind at this beautiful sandy beach and take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic ocean.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Black Friar Inn & Restaurant

Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner featuring fresh ingredients and a cozy atmosphere.
USD 40, 2 hours

Day 3: Mount Desert Island Adventure

Mount Desert Island, ME

8:00 AM

Breakfast at 2 Cats Restaurant

Savor an energizing breakfast with their famous eggs benedict before heading out for a day of exploration.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Schoodic Point

Visit the more remote section of Acadia National Park, perfect for breathtaking coastal views and fewer crowds.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Walk the Schoodic Loop Trail

Experience the rugged coastlines on this 2-mile loop trail that showcases the stunning landscape.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Galley Restaurant

Feast on fresh clam chowder and local specialties while overlooking the water.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit the Schoodic Institute

Engage with visitor programming or take part in their guided nature walks to deepen your understanding of the ecology.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Scenic Drive Along the Coast

Take a leisurely drive through the striking coastline and stop at scenic overlooks.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Salt Box

Relish a delicious meal with local Maine lobster dishes and desserts that capture the essence of the coast.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Departure and Last Hike

Acadia National Park, ME

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Enjoy a hearty breakfast, perhaps try their classic Maine blueberry waffles before concluding your stay.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Hike the Precipice Trail

For the adventurous, tackle this challenging trail with iron rungs leading to spectacular views at the summit.
Free, 2-3 hours

12:00 PM

Pack Lunch

Prepare a simple lunch from local groceries, perhaps wraps or salads for a quick meal at the park.
USD 10, 30 minutes

1:00 PM

Final Exploration and Scenic Overview

Take a final stroll to the viewpoints around the park to soak in the last of the Acadian beauty.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Departure

Head back to Bar Harbor to return your rental car and prepare for your journey home.
Free, 1 hour