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Scenic Drives Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Acadia's Park Loop Road

Everything you need to know about driving the 27-mile scenic loop that hits the park's biggest highlights, from Sand Beach to Cadillac Mountain.

The Park Loop Road is the primary artery of Acadia National Park. This 27-mile scenic drive connects the park’s most iconic sights, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliff, and Jordan Pond.

If you only have one day in Acadia, driving this loop is how you spend it.

The Route at a Glance

  • Length: 27 miles (43 km)
  • Time: 3-4 hours (with stops)
  • Direction: Mostly one-way (clockwise). Pay attention to signs!
  • Fee: You must have a valid National Park pass displayed in your windshield.

Key Stops (In Order)

Since the road is one-way, you need to hit these in order. If you miss one, you have to drive the whole loop again!

1. Sieur de Monts Spring

The “Heart of Acadia.” Visit the Nature Center and the Wild Gardens of Acadia here. It’s a quiet start before the crowds.

2. Sand Beach

One of the few sandy beaches in a park famous for rock.

  • The Vibe: Gorgeous but freezing. The water rarely tops 55°F.
  • The Hike: The trailhead for the famous Beehive Trail (iron rungs, very steep) is right across the street. Alternatively, take the flat Ocean Path which starts here.

3. Thunder Hole

A natural inlet where waves crash into a small cavern, creating a thunderous boom and splashing water 40 feet in the air.

  • Pro Tip: It only “thunders” about 2 hours before high tide. At low tide, it’s just a quiet cave. Check the tide charts!

4. Otter Cliff

One of the most spectacular sights on the East Coast. These 110-foot granite cliffs drop straight into the ocean. It’s a popular spot for rock climbers.

5. Jordan Pond

The deepest and clearest lake in the park.

  • The Jordan Pond House: Famous for its popovers and tea on the lawn. Reservations are essential in summer.
  • The Hike: The Jordan Pond Path is a flat, easy 3.3-mile loop around the water.

6. Cadillac Mountain Summit Road

Near the end of the loop, you can turn onto the road up Cadillac Mountain.

  • Warning: From May through October, you need a separate vehicle reservation to drive up Cadillac Road. Do not just show up; you will be turned away.

Logistics & Tips

  • Go Early or Late: Between 10 AM and 3 PM in July and August, the road can be a parking lot. The right lane allows parking, which effectively turns the scenic drive into a one-lane road.
  • The Island Explorer: Consider leaving the car behind. The free propane-powered buses stop at all major points on the loop. It’s stress-free and better for the environment.
  • One-Way Warning: The section from Sand Beach to Jordan Pond is one-way. Once you pass Sand Beach, you are committed.

Seasonal Access

  • Summer/Fall: Fully open.
  • Winter: Most of the Park Loop Road closes to cars from December 1 to April 14. It becomes a playground for cross-country skiers and fat-tire bikers.