People come to Acadia for all sorts of reasons: it’s been a bucket list item, they’re National Park buffs, someone told them it’s great, and tons of other reasons (none of them bad!). However, we’ve noticed that some people who come here to get away from the crowds can be disappointed because, almost no matter when you visit, it’s a popular time to be here. That’s where we come in! We get to explore the areas of the Park that are simply stunning, but often overlooked. And one of the benefits of staying at a boutique inn like the Inn at Bay Ledge is that we are more than happy to share our “research” with you!
Most Google searches for some version of “what to do in Acadia” all have the same few items at the top of the list, which often means that most people end up going to the same few places, all at the same time. If you want to experience the beauty of Acadia, and hopefully get away from the big crowds, we’ve got you covered. (A quick note before we get started: Acadia is one of the most popular National Parks in the US, and there are almost no places in the park where you won’t run into at least some other people. This list is meant to provide just as good [or better] alternatives to the most popular parts of the Park).
The Beehive Trail is far and away the most popular and iconic hike in Acadia. It has everything: great views, a serious sense of accomplishment upon finishing, and, oh yes, crowds. During the busiest parts of the year (July 4 and Indigenous People’s Day, among others), the line can stretch almost from top to bottom. If you want the same type of experience without the wait, we’ve got you covered.
Dax’s favorite hike in the Park is Pemetic Mountain. It’s strenuous like Beehive, but without the need to dangle from a cliffside, and the views are IN-CREDIBLE. Seriously, breathtaking. Also, we’ve done the hike multiple times, and have never seen more than about a dozen people on the trail. If you want spectacular views like Beehive, but to get away from most of the crowds, while still getting a workout, Pemetic is for you.
If part of the alure of Beehive is the fact that you get to dangle from the side of a mountain, check out Dorr Mountain. Named for one of the founding fathers of Acadia, it was one of the hardest mountains to trailblaze in the park due to its sheer steepness. If height-inducing vertigo is your idea of a good time, Dorr could be your new best friend.
