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Bar Harbor, Maine
A verymaine.com introduction to Bar Harbor, Maine
(Search Bar Harbor Maine Real Estate)

Acadia - BAR HARBOR, Maine - For those who want to experience some of Maine's best scenery, Bar Harbor, Maine and Acadia National Park on Mt. Desert Island should be at the top of their “must-see” list.

While there are several other picturesque villages on Mt. Desert Island, including Southwest Harbor, Tremont and Northwest Harbor, Bar Harbor is the largest. The most recent census lists the population of Bar Harbor at 4,820, a number can swell more than tenfold during summer months.

(Read about the history of Bar Harbor)

Acadia National Park, the only national park in New England, is the biggest draw for tourists today in the Bar Harbor region. The park makes up over 30,000 acres of the island (including two smaller islands just off the coast of Mt. Desert Island that offer an additional 17,000 acres) and is known most for Cadillac Mountain, believed to be the first spot in the United States where the sunrise is visible. The Rockefeller family, which vacationed regularly on the island, was largely instrumental for creating the park, and restoring it following the 1947 fire. Future vice-president Nelson Rockefeller was born at Bar Harbor.

A nirvana for outdoor enthusiasts, popular recreation within the park includes hiking, bicycling, swimming, kayaking, bird watching and fishing.

While the gray wolf and mountain lion have vanished from the park (and state) over 40 major species still live in Acadia National Park including moose, porcupine, beaver, beaver and black bear. More than 270 species of bird, including the bald eagle and chickadee have been spotted in the Park.

Hull’s Cove Visitor Center is usually the first destination for the more than 3 million tourists that visit the park each year, although there are many entrances onto park grounds. Since most visitors spend more than a day at the park, passes are mainly sold in 7-day increments, ranging from $20 for a vehicle during peak season to $5 for an individual.

While a guided tour is a great way to see the park, there's nothing like getting out on your own to discover the wonder and the beauty that is Acadia National Park. While there, make sure you don't miss the following:

• The Carriage Roads: Explore the 51 miles of gravel pathways and granite bridges created by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. for horse-drawn carriages. Always closed to motorized vehicles, the carriage trails are enjoyed by walkers, hikers, bicyclers, cross country skiers and snowshoeing enthusiasts.

• The Park Loop Road : A 27-mile scenic ride along the eastern portion of Mt. Desert Island offers access to most of the well-known park sites.

• Thunder Hole: A thunderous sound is made in this natural wonder during each high tide. As water rushes into the narrow granite channel, it effectively traps the air. When the air escapes, ‘thunder' follows.

• Jordan Pond: Formed by a glacier, the pond's pristine clear water reflects the surrounding mountains. While visiting at the pond, stop by the Jordan Pond House Restaurant and sample its famous popovers.

• Wildwood Stables: The stable offers horse -drawn carriage rides – a refreshing and unique way to experience the park.

• Schoodic Peninsula: Described as “one of the last frontiers on the eastern seaboard,” the peninsula is located a few miles away from the main park, but features working lobstering and clamming areas, blueberry barrens and timberland, with mountain vistas, islands, and lighthouses. Many think it's the most beautiful and rugged section of the national park.

Continued - Bar harbor cultural events


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