In short
- Drive into Mount Desert Island via Route 3.
- Fly into Bangor or Hancock County airports.
- Use the free Island Explorer bus to skip parking lines.
In this article
Getting to Acadia National Park requires traveling to the coast of Maine. Many visitors drive from regional hubs like Boston or Bangor. Others fly into nearby airports before making their way to Bar Harbor. Navigating the park itself requires some planning, especially during the busy summer and fall seasons.
How do you drive to Acadia National Park?
Most visitors arrive by car via Route 3, which leads directly into Bar Harbor.
Driving from Boston or Bangor is a popular option. The route takes you straight to Mount Desert Island. Once inside the park, you can explore the 27-mile Park Loop Road. Parking fills up quickly during the summer, so arrive early.
What is the closest airport to Acadia National Park?
Hancock County and Bangor are the most convenient airports for visiting Acadia.
If you prefer to fly, these regional airports put you near the park. From there, you can rent a vehicle to reach Bar Harbor. Keep in mind that a standard private vehicle entrance pass costs $35. It is valid for 7 days.
Can you get around Acadia without a car?
Yes, you can use the free Island Explorer shuttle to navigate the park.
This propane-powered bus connects local towns, campgrounds, and trailheads. It operates from late June through early October. Using the shuttle helps you bypass severe parking congestion at busy trailheads.
Are there guided transportation options in Acadia?
Guided bus tours offer a convenient way to see the park without driving yourself.
Tours pick up visitors and handle the driving. This removes the stress of finding parking at popular spots like Thunder Hole. You can relax and listen to a local guide explain the area's history and geology.
Can you bike to get around Acadia?
You can easily bike along 45 miles of historic, motor-free carriage roads.
These unpaved roads were financed by John D. Rockefeller Jr. Motorized vehicles are completely prohibited on the carriage roads. Renting an e-bike or joining a guided e-bike tour is an excellent way to explore the park.
Do you need a reservation to drive in Acadia?
You only need a vehicle reservation for the Cadillac Summit Road.
The rest of the Park Loop Road does not require a reservation. The Cadillac Summit Road reservation costs $6. It is required from late May to late October (May 20–October 25 in 2026). No RVs or trailers are allowed on this specific road.
Questions travellers ask
Do you need a car to get around Acadia?
No. From late June through early October, the free Island Explorer shuttle connects towns, campgrounds, and trailheads. You can also bike the 45 miles of unpaved carriage roads.
How much does it cost to drive into Acadia?
A standard private vehicle entrance pass costs $35 for 7 days. Beginning in 2026, non-U.S. residents aged 16 and older face an additional $100 nonresident entrance fee.
Is there cell service on the park roads?
Cell service is unreliable inside the park. You should download offline maps or bring a physical map before you travel.
