Mount Desert Island Travel Guide
Explore the beauty of Mount Desert Island with our comprehensive travel guide that features a list of must-visit places, activities, local culture and customs, safety tips, and transportation options, to name a few.
- Introduction to Mount Desert Island
- List of Places to Visit in Mount Desert Island
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Mount Desert Island
- Hiking Trails
- Biking Routes
- Best Things to Do in Mount Desert Island: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Mount Desert Island
- Food and Drink Scene of Mount Desert Island
- Where to Stay in Mount Desert Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina
- Bar Harbor Grand Hotel
- What to Buy in Mount Desert Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Wild Blueberries
- Handcrafted Items
- Local Culture and Customs of Mount Desert Island
- Best Time to Visit Mount Desert Island
- Do’s and Don’ts of Mount Desert Island
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Mount Desert Island: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Mount Desert Island
- Where to Go Next from Mount Desert Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island is a serene, picturesque island located in Hancock County, Maine, in the northeastern part of the United States. Famous for its stunning and rugged coastal scenery, this magical island is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and vacationers looking to unwind and connect with nature.
The island is blessed with miles of coastline, pristine beaches, mountains, lush forests, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, all contributing to its allure. The island is also home to majestic lighthouses, museums, and historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Mount Desert Island has something special to offer for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island is packed with fascinating attractions that cater to different interests. Here is a list of the top must-visit places to explore on the island.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Abbe Museum
The Abbe Museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Maine’s Native American communities. The museum houses captivating exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that showcase the Wabanaki people’s rich history and culture. Visitors can also see traditional artworks like baskets and beadwork, among others.
Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum
The Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum offers a glimpse into the island’s past with exciting exhibits and collections showcasing the island’s cultural heritage. Visitors can discover the region’s maritime history, glimpse early life on the island, and explore the island’s evolution into a world-famous summer resort destination.
Natural Attractions of Mount Desert Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown of Mount Desert Island. The park features breathtaking landscapes, trails for hiking, biking and nature walks, bird watching, rock climbing, and outdoor adventures for all ages.
Jordan Pond
Jordan Pond is one of the most picturesque spots on Mount Desert Island, surrounded by pristine forests and clear, calm water. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk and bask in the serene ambiance of the area while watching for signs of aquatic life.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island boasts of over 120 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Visitors also have access to scenic bike trails that offer spectacular views of the coastal scenery.
Hiking Trails
Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain is home to many hiking trails offering stunning views of the island. With an elevation of 1530 feet, it is the tallest mountain on the island and features challenging trails that lead all the way to the mountain summit. The hikes on Cadillac Mountain meander through verdant forests, rocky slopes and offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Bubbles
The Bubbles offers a moderate hiking trail that takes hikers along crystalline Jordan Pond. This hiking route offers fascinating views of the surrounding mountain and sparkling waters.
Biking Routes
The Carriage Roads
The Carriage Roads offer over 50 miles of quintessential bike trails through Acadia National Park’s forested hills and along lakeshores. The smooth and gently winding routes offer picturesque farms, historic landmarks, and lofty mountains views.
Best Things to Do in Mount Desert Island: Activities and Tours
Whale Watching Tour
Whale watching tours offer visitors a chance to marvel at the stunning marine life around Mount Desert Island. Tour boats venture through the island’s coastal waters, offering an opportunity to see humpback whales, seals, dolphins, harbor porpoises, and more.
Sea Kayaking Adventure
Sea kayaking adventures is another popular activity on the island for great wilderness exploring. Visitors can explore charming coves, rocky shores, striking cliffs, and rugged islands while soaking up the island’s natural beauty.
Week-Long Itinerary for Mount Desert Island
A week-long itinerary ensures that visitors don’t miss any of the island’s unique charms and attractions. Visitors can enjoy the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, hiking trails, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Day 1: Explore Acadia National Park and visit Cadillac Mountain
Day 2: Explore the picturesque town of Bar Harbor
Day 3: Take a whale watching tour and sea kayaking adventure to explore the coastal waters of the island
Day 4: Visit the Abbe Museum and Bar Harbor Historical Society Museum
Day 5: Hike the trails in Acadia National Park or bike the carriage roads
Day 6: Relax and unwind at Sand Beach and Echo Lake Beach
Day 7: Explore the local food and drink scene
Food and Drink Scene of Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island offers a wide range of local food and drink options. From fresh seafood dishes and locally sourced vegetables, visitors can indulge in the island’s unique culinary offerings.
Must-Try Dishes
Lobster Rolls
No trip to Mount Desert Island is complete without trying one of its iconic Lobster Rolls. This signature dish features fresh, succulent lobster meat, served up on a toasted bun with a topping of butter and condiments like mayonnaise and lemon juice.
Wild Blueberry Pie
Wild Blueberry Pie is another popular dish in the area. This pie is unique to the region, with locally sourced wild blueberries and flaky crust.
Local Beverages
Visitors can quench their thirst with locally brewed beers and wines, including bottled craft beers from local breweries. Local distilleries also offer an array of locally distilled spirits like vodka and rum.
Where to Stay in Mount Desert Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Mount Desert Island offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Visitors have the option of staying in hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses.
Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina
The Harborside Hotel is a luxurious resort in Bar Harbor with stunning ocean views, waterfront access, and a prime location near many of the island’s amenities.
Bar Harbor Grand Hotel
The Bar Harbor Grand Hotel offers a unique blend of modern amenities and classic New England-style decor. The hotel sits in a prime location, offering excellent views of Frenchman Bay.
What to Buy in Mount Desert Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Wild Blueberries
Certified Maine Wild Blueberries are a unique and delicious product to take back home and offer a taste of Maines. Visitors can also try they Jams, jellies, syrups, and other preserves available.
Handcrafted Items
Handcrafted items like pottery, paintings, and baskets made by local artisans and craftsmen are widely available on the island.
Local Culture and Customs of Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island is home to a rich culture and customs that visitors can learn about while visiting. The local people place their traditions and heritage high on their life priority list.
Best Time to Visit Mount Desert Island
Visit Mount Desert Island during the summer season, between June and August, to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery, pleasant temperatures, and a multitude of outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Mount Desert Island
Do:
- Respect the local flora and fauna when hiking in Acadia National Park’s trails
- Check for weather updates before engaging in any outdoor activity
- Try the lobster rolls and wild blueberry pie
Don’t:
- Litter the beaches or trails
- Disturb the wildlife
- Trespass on private property
Safety and Health
Safety in Mount Desert Island
The island is safe for visitors, but it’s advisable not to wander into isolated areas or trails alone, especially at night.
Health in Mount Desert Island
Visitors must have health insurance and ensure they bring along any necessary prescriptions or medications they may need.
Getting to Mount Desert Island: Transportation Options and Logistics
Visitors can access Mount Desert Island by different modes of transportation.
Airports Near Mount Desert Island
The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, which offers daily flights to regional destinations.
Bus Stations Near Mount Desert Island
Tour buses and services like Concord Coach Lines operate between Boston, Portland, and Acadia Gateway Center.
Other Options
Visitors can access Mount Desert Island from Boston or New York City using car rental, Amtrak, or Greyhound Bus services.
How to Get Around in Mount Desert Island
Visitors can rent or bring their vehicles to explore the island. Biking and walking are also popular options, with miles of scenic trails spread throughout the island.
Where to Go Next from Mount Desert Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
While on Mount Desert Island visitors can continue their adventure by exploring other destinations, including:
- Acadia National Park
- Bar Harbor
- Southwest Harbor
- Cadillac Mountain
- Schoodic Point
Conclusion
Mount Desert Island is a magical destination that offers visitors a unique experience. With stunning landscapes, breathtaking trails, pristine beaches, and a fascinating cultural heritage, the island offers something special for everyone. Visitors can explore the island’s attractions, taste the local cuisine, and indulge in outdoor adventures on the island that promise to be an unforgettable experience.
