Looking for that perfect fall adventure and needing some inspiration? Keep reading! While New England is well-known for its epic displays of colorful fall foliage, most people flock to the picturesque towns in New Hampshire and Vermont. If you’re looking for something a bit more on the adventurous side, a unique and relatively underrated part of New England is Acadia National Park in Maine.

Located on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, Acadia is one of the most unique and inviting national parks in the United States. Known for its stunning array of landscapes, Acadia features granite peaks, lush forests and rocky coastlines that come to life in the fall with hues of red, orange and gold. The warm autumn tones create the most striking contrast against the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean!

The cooler fall temperatures are perfect for hiking and exploring, and the clear skies make for some of the best stargazing on the East Coast. No matter what type of traveler you are, you’re sure to have a magical fall experience here.

To help plan your itinerary, below are 10 of the best things to do this fall in Acadia National Park:

1. Explore the Sea Cave at Schooner Head

One of the hidden gems of Acadia is the sea cave at Schooner Head. Accessible during low tide, this spot is a must-see for extra-adventurous travelers. To find the cave, head to the Schooner Head Overlook and follow the narrow path down to the shore. Be mindful of the tides, as they can quickly cover the cave entrance. It can also be quite slick!

---

2. Hike the Beehive Trail

Another activity for those who crave an adrenaline rush, the Beehive Trail is a must-do. This short, but steep hike features iron rungs, narrow ledges, and stunning views. The trail begins near Sand Beach and involves a climb up a cliffside to the Beehive peak. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the coastline and Frenchman Bay. A serene mountain pond called “The Bowl” is a great place to enjoy a peaceful break before heading back down.

---

3. Witness Sunrise or Sunset on Cadillac Mountain

Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard, offers some of the most spectacular views in the park. From October to March, it’s the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise. If early mornings aren’t your thing, catching the sunset is just as beautiful and likely to be less-crowded. It’s a popular spot, so plan ahead and arrive early, especially during peak season when a timed entry pass is required for the auto road.

---

4. Take the Bubble Rocks Trail

The Bubble Rocks Trail is a relatively short, but steep, hike that takes you to the North and South Bubble peaks. South Bubble features the famous Bubble Rock, a large boulder precariously perched on the edge of a cliff. The views overlooking Jordan Pond and the surrounding mountains are well worth the effort!

---

5. Walk the Ocean Path

The Ocean Path is a scenic, 2.2-mile trail that stretches from Sand Beach to Otter Point. This relatively easy walk follows the rugged coastline, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliffs. It’s an ideal trail for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Acadia without the challenge of a strenuous hike. The Ocean Path is accessible to all skill levels and provides plenty of opportunities for photography.

---

6. Cross the Sand Bar to Bar Island

At low tide, a sand bar emerges from the water, connecting Bar Harbor to Bar Island. This unique phenomenon allows you to walk or hike across to the island. The sand bar is about half a mile long and can be traversed for 1.5 hours before and after low tide. Once on Bar Island, you can hike another half mile to the summit, where you’ll find amazing views of Bar Harbor and Frenchman Bay. Be sure to check the tide charts to avoid getting stranded!

---

7. Explore the Carriage Roads by Bicycle

Acadia’s Carriage Roads are a network of gravel paths winding through the park, closed to motor vehicles but perfect for biking. The 45 miles of carriage roads offer a peaceful way to experience the park’s forests, lakes, and mountains. Bike rentals are available in Bar Harbor, and e-bikes are a great option for covering more ground with less effort. One of the highlights is biking around Jordan Pond and stopping at the Jordan Pond House for their famous popovers.

---

8. Hike the Jordan Pond Path

The Jordan Pond Path is a gentle 3.3-mile loop around the pristine waters of Jordan Pond. The trail is relatively flat and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic North and South Bubble peaks. For a more challenging adventure, connect with the Bubble Trail to hike up to the Bubbles. The crystal-clear water and lush surroundings make this one of Acadia’s most popular and picturesque trails.

---

9. Visit the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

Located on the southwestern side of Mount Desert Island, the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is one of Acadia’s most photographed landmarks. The lighthouse, perched atop a rocky cliff, offers stunning views of the harbor and surrounding waters. A short, paved path leads to the lighthouse, and a 0.4-mile trail takes you to a scenic overlook where you can capture the perfect sunset photo. It’s a great spot to end your day in Acadia.

---

10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

No trip to Maine would be complete without trying some of the state’s famous lobster dishes. From classic lobster rolls to more adventurous options like lobster ice cream, Bar Harbor has it all. Geddy’s is a popular spot for seafood, offering everything from lobster mac and cheese to blueberry pie. For a unique treat, head to Ben and Bill’s Chocolate Emporium and sample their lobster ice cream — if you’re feeling brave!

Acadia National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re hiking the trails, exploring sea caves, or enjoying a quiet bike ride along the Carriage Roads, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to explore one of America’s most beautiful national parks!

---

Kris Maria is a hiking and travel blogger based in the Washington, D.C., area. Visit her website, krismariawanders.com, for more East Coast adventure ideas.