Acadia National Park is one of the best national parks to drive to and bring your car. You will definitely want to have a car to drive the famous Park Loop Road.
When you drive to Acadia National Park you will enter via Trenton Bridge. Acadia National Park is located on an island off the coast of Maine. You can also access the island by boat if you prefer. Ferries run daily.
However, if you can not bring your car it is not the end of the world. There is a fantastic shuttle bus that can take you everywhere you need to go. You won’t miss a thing!
Can you Drive into Acadia National Park?
You can drive into Acadia National Park. The entrance to the park is via the Sand Beach entrance station located on the park loop road. It is here that you will present your park pass or purchase the appropriate pass required to enter.
Currently, there are restrictions on the way in which visitors are admitted to the park. You will now have to register prior to your visit if you wish to experience Cadillac Summit Road. This can be done online via Recreation.gov.
While this can seem a hassle it is actually a huge benefit that you will be thankful for once you arrive. Acadia National Park is becoming more and more popular by the year. Unfortunately, the park has not been able to keep up with the increase in visitors and car parking at the popular Cadillac Summit is limited. By pre-purchasing a time slot you are sure to get a coveted car space to be able to enjoy the beautiful vistas.
You are able to book either a morning or day pass. The morning passes are perfect for catching that stunning sunrise but you will be wowed at any hour that you visit.
Make sure you read this post to know how many days you need to plan for your visit to Acadia National Park
How Much Is a Car Pass To Acadia National Park?
Generally, the cost of a car pass into Acadia National Park is $30. This will permit the car and its passengers (up to 15) into the park for the day.
However, if you are likely to visit the park multiple times or visit other national parks in the country an annual national parks pass is likely going to be a much better deal. You can purchase an America the Beautiful pass for around $80.
To see if you can visit Acadia National Park for free check out this post with all the tips on how to get into national parks without having to pay.
Is Arcadia National Park Open To Drive Through?
Acadia National Park is open to a drive-through park. Many visitors will drive through the park stopping at different points of interest along the way.
There are the famous Carriage Roads however which do not permit cars or any other motor vehicle. These beautiful roads were established back in 1915 by JD Rockefeller. Even though you can not drive on these roads they make the most gorgeous walks and pathways for bikes
If you do not want to drive your own car through Acadia National Park you can ride the shuttle bus that runs throughout the day.
How Long Does It Take To Drive The Park Loop Road?
On average, it takes 3 hours to drive the 27 miles of Park Loop Drive in Acadia National Park. There are various stopping points along the drive that you may wish to see which will impact the time it takes. However, 3 hours is usually ample time.
The Park Loop Road is one of the true highlights of Acadia National Park and it is incredibly beneficial if you wish to bring your car. There is also a park shuttle that runs on a regular time table which will drop you at notable stops along the way.
One of the best parts of driving the Park Loop Road in Acadia is the stunning scenery that you are able to enjoy. Many visitors are inspired by the fall colours and incredible landscapes that present themselves along the road.
Many of Acadia National Parks most magical spots and hikes originate from Park Loop Road. Just vere off and park up while to experience each spot before hopping back in your car to visit the next beautiful location.
Parking In Acadia National Park
One of the biggest questions people have when bringing cars to often busy locations is what the parking situation is like. Hopefully we can shed some light on this common question. You can check here to know the busy times on any given day
Is it Free to Park In Acadia National Park?
Parking is free of charge in Acadia National Park and is included in your park entrance pass. This can be purchased for $30 as a day pass or an annual America the Beautiful pass is $80.
During peak season it is advisable to use the shuttles located within Acadia National Park. Parking is often limited at these times. You will be able to access all the main areas of the park and hiking trails with the shuttle.
The parking cost for Bar Habor which is the town directly outside of Acadia National Park is roughly $1-2 per hour.
Can I Bring My RV Or Camper Into Acadia National Park?
RV’s and other oversize vehicles can only be accommodated in Jordan Pond where there are 12 oversized carparks. There are not other parking areas in the park for large vehicles.
There are three campgrounds in Acadia National which are able to accommodate RV’s. It is advisable to set up you campsite then enter the park via the Park Loop Road with just your tow vehicle.
Can You Park Overnight In Acadia National Park?
You are not able to park overnight in Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds available for use, but back country or dispersed camping is not permitted.
There are many different accommodation options near the park including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts and home rentals. There will definitely be something to suit every visitor.