On Acadia's Carriage Roads, expect to eticoutiter bicyclists, equestrians, joggers and horse-drawn carriages. There are more than 30 miles of historic carriage roads in Acadia National Park. These motor-free wilderness byways are graded for casual strolling. The carriage roads are multi-use trails, so expect to encounter bicyclists, joggers, equestrians and horsedrawn carriages.
For a more strenuous and solitary experience, take to Acadia's 120 miles of hiking trails, which are off-limits to bicyclists and horses. Many trails on the eastern side of Mount Desert Island originated as Abnaki Indian footpaths hundreds of years before the arrival of Europeans. Other more developed trails feature elaborate stone steps and ladder rungs for scaling sheer cliffs. Trail maps are available at the Park's Visitor Center and at various stores on theisland.
Resource Sensitive
Hikling Guidelines
EXPECT TO ENCOUNTER OTHER USERS ON THE CARRIAGE ROADS. Walk on the right, no more than two abreast. Pedestrians yield to horses, and cyclists must yield to pedestrians and equestrians.
STAY ON DESIGNATED TRAILS when hiking to avoid soil erosion and harm to forest undergrowth and fragile alpine flowers, lichen and mosses. Follow blue blazing and cairns.
PLAN AHEAD for a long hike or carriage road trek. Bring a map, water and extra clothing. The nearest restrooms are at the Visitors Center, the Eagle lake parking lot, Bear Brook Picnic Area and the Jordan Pond House.
KEEP GROUP SIZES SMALL when hiking and avoid taking up the entire trail or road. When passing or being passed, walk single file.
KEEP PETS ON A LEASH. Dogs must be kept on a six-foot leash at all times within the park. This minimizes potential conflict with other park users and reduces the likelihood of damage to wild flora and fauna.
AVOID SMOKING IN FORESTED AREAS. Mount Desert Island's forests are quite dry, and sparks catch quickly. Did you know that it takes 35 years for a cigarette butt to decompose?
LEAVE NO TRACE. Carry out at least as much trash as you carried into the park.
On Acadia's Carriage Roads, expect to eticoutiter bicyclists, equestrians, joggers and horse-drawn carriages.
LEAVE WILD FLOWERS, PLANTS AND ROCKS WHERE THEY ARE. Acadia harbors a number of state-listed rare plants, and collecting just a few harms their chances of survival. Removing rocks can cause erosion.
DON'T FEED WILD ANIMALS. It encourages dependent behavior which is harmful to them in the long run.
EDUCATE YOURSELF about the park's natural history. Many naturalist programs are offered throughout the summer; call park headquarters for more information at 207-288-3338.
PARK 'N RIDEI Why not leave your car behind and take the shuttle bus into the Park? You'll have access to several great hikes. It's the stress-free way to enjoy hiking in Acadia. Call Downeast Transportation at 207-667-5796.
