Acadia National Park
Our very first National Park!
Adventures in Acadia: A Week of Exploration with Milo - Hey fellow adventurers! In April of 2023, we decided to take a 7 day trip from Pittsburgh, PA to Acadia, ME. Though we did a quick pit stop in Boston on the way up, our way home was completed in one single drive (I know, I know, we’re crazy for that). Even though we we’re there for several days, with a pretty packed itinerary, there is still plenty we didn’t get a chance to see. This blog is mainly just talking about the areas we did get to enjoy and what we strongly recommend!
We did decide to steer towards the Airbnb route versus the camping route, and I don’t regret it one bit. Our house was located about 30 minutes outside of Bar Harbor, not only making it more wallet friendly but also offering peace and tranquility away from the more touristy areas. (Visit my Airbnb recommendation page to see the exact cabin!)
Visiting in April turned out to be a great choice. We experienced Acadia's stunning landscapes without the usual crowds, enjoying the crisp mornings that gradually warmed into pleasant afternoons—perfect for exploring the park's diverse trails and scenic views. Layering up was key! Starting with a hat and gloves, I often found myself shedding layers as we hiked, only to appreciate having a flannel or jacket handy, especially at higher elevations where temperatures can unexpectedly drop. It's all about staying comfortable and prepared for anything nature throws your way!
Top Hikes of Acadia
Pemetic South Ridge Trail
One of our favorite hikes during the trip was the Pemetic Mountain South Ridge Trail. This wonderful trail spans 6 miles and took us about 4+ hours to complete due to frequent water stops, snacking, and rest time at the top of the mountain. Do bear in mind that the trail can be challenging, so it's crucial to bring plenty of extra water for your furry companions and check the daytime temperatures before setting out. Luckily Milo is a very active and adventurous dog so he was able to handle the long climbs, rough terrain, and hours outside. I definitely wouldn’t recommend this to older dogs or first-time hikers.
Top of Petemic Mountain.
Great Head Trail
The Great Head Trail is a real gem in Acadia, offering two options: a moderate 1.6-mile route and a slightly longer 1.8-mile loop. Perfect for dogs of all ages, Milo and I opted for the full loop, reaching the overlook with stunning views of Sand Beach below. Visiting in April meant fewer crowds, allowing Milo to have a blast playing on the beach. It's a perfect hike for anyone looking to enjoy Acadia's beauty without straying too far from the shoreline. Future tip: this was one of the hikes I was greatful to dress in layers for. What started off as cold eventually became a rather hot hike out in the sun. Due to being on the shore there wasn’t much shade, so be mindful of the times you plan on visiting this specific trail.
Bonus: Sandy Beach!
After hiking the Great Head Trail, make a stop at Sandy Beach. Thankfully, because it was off season, dogs were allowed on the beach and could play around in the sand. It was way too cold for Milo to really swim but he did tip some paws in the water out of curiosity. We ended putting down a blanket and eating our packed lunch here. There is a parking lot very close to the beach and trailhead that made for easy car access.
Shoreline accessible from the Wonderland Trail.
Wonderland Trail
After some of our more strenuous hikes, we opted for the Wonderland Trail. This is a relaxed and easy walk that leads right out onto the shore. The trail was completely flat and took us through a small wooded area until we reached the shoreline. It was almost completely isolated during the off-season, which was a nice surprise. We spent some time here skipping rocks and just relaxing, enjoying the serenity of our surroundings.
Jordan Pond Path Loop with Bubble Mountains in the background.
Jordan Pond Path Loop
We also tried the Jordan Pond Path Loop. This trail offers a beautiful view of the Bubble Mountains and even has a short pathway that leads right down to the water. It takes about an hour to walk the path and, despite visiting in April, we found it to be relatively lively. However, dogs must be kept on leashes the entire time.
Other “must do’s” in Acadia:
Sunrise Walk at Otter Point
One of our most memorable adventures was a sunrise walk at Otter Point. Due to the main road of Cadillac Mountain being closed for the off-season, we chose this peaceful and isolated spot for our morning excursion. It was calm, serene, and the perfect place to watch the sunrise. We even did a little exploring right on the shore. This is definitely something I wouldn't want to miss if I were visiting Acadia. And because you’re up so early, it’s a good excuse to stop by one of the well-known bakeries in the area for fresh donuts!
Visit Bar Harbor, Maine
Even during the off-season, Bar Harbor was a definite highlight of our trip! While not every restaurant and shop was open, there was still plenty to keep us entertained. We indulged in multiple delicious lobster rolls and explored charming local stores. Of course, no vacation is complete without late-night ice cream by the water, enjoying the peaceful views under the sunset. It was the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration in this quaint coastal town. We did find that because it was “off” season and still a bit chilly, a lot of outdoor dining options weren’t available. For most dinners we either got takeout and picnicked on the grass or left Milo back at the Airbnb to sleep it out while we dined. Special shout out to Side Street Cafe! We ended up eating here multiple nights just because of how much we loved their food!
Final Thoughts
Our trip to Acadia was filled with breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and unforgettable moments. I personally was a fan of going during late April, where it was still considered off season, but spring was starting to set in and bloom. Keep in mind to check the weather and pack accordingly! Most days started cold, managed to warm up, and then ended up being pretty chilly. Layers were our best friend along with a nice outdoor campfire. I think this is one of those places we will without a doubt be visiting again, most likely during peak tourist season, just to compare the two.