Acadia National Park for First-Timers

Known as the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast, Acadia National Park draws more than 3 million visitors each year. The park is a preserved locale on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, which primarily consists of rocky landscape, lush woodland and stunning granite stone and glacier peaks — all surrounded by rocky beaches and the cool Atlantic.

If this is your first time visiting the park, there are a few must-sees to have on your list.

Visitors flock to the more than 150 hiking trails rounding beaches, mountains and historic landmarks, like the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and carriage roads with covered bridges, all with hopes of seeing resident wildlife, including moose, bear and whales.

One stunner you need to see while visiting the park: Jordan Pond. The glacier-formed lake is surrounded by rocks and mountains, with easy access by trails and lake activities. Rent a boat and get out on the pristine water, or stick to the shore and visit the nearby tea house and restaurant for refreshments on Park Loop Road.

See the waves crashing along Thunder Hole, a rock crevice that lives up to the name, or take in the calm views from Precipice Trail.

Hit the beach nearly anywhere on the park, as it’s basically surrounded by them, but one beach park favorite is Sand Beach. With its overlook and surrounding Ocean Path Trailhead, the beach offers a small resting area to lounge and relax after a long hike, boasting endless natural beauty.