Mount Desert Island

Mount Desert Island: Heart of Acadia National Park

Mount Desert Island, located off the coast of Maine, is the largest island in the state and the second largest along the eastern seaboard of the United States, covering approximately 108 square miles (280 square kilometers). Renowned for its stunning landscapes, varied ecosystems, and rich cultural history, the island is perhaps best known as the home of Acadia National Park. The island's unique blend of natural beauty, quaint towns, and historical significance has made it a popular destination for tourists, outdoor enthusiasts, and artists alike.

Mount Desert Island

Where Is Mount Desert Island?

Mount Desert Island is located on the northeastern coast of Maine, in Hancock County. Spanning approximately 108 square miles (280 km²), it is the sixth-largest island in the contiguous United States. The island is connected to the mainland by a short bridge via Route 3 at the town of Trenton, making it easily accessible by car.

A Land of Contrasts and Natural Splendor

MDI’s landscape is one of the most diverse and dramatic on the Atlantic seaboard. It boasts towering granite peaks, dense forests, serene ponds, sandy beaches, and rocky coastlines that face the turbulent Atlantic Ocean. Much of this beauty is protected within Acadia National Park, which occupies about half of the island.

1. The Mountains

The island's interior is dominated by a range of rounded granite mountains. The tallest, Cadillac Mountain (1,530 feet), is the highest point along the North Atlantic coast and famous for being the first place in the U.S. to see sunrise during part of the year. Other notable peaks include Dorr Mountain, Pemetic Mountain, and Sargent Mountain, each offering panoramic views and challenging trails.

2. The Coastline

Mount Desert Island’s shoreline alternates between steep pink granite cliffs and quiet coves. Along the Park Loop Road, visitors encounter iconic coastal landmarks like Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliffs, each showcasing the island’s rugged maritime charm.

Towns on Mount Desert Island

Mount Desert Island is home to several charming towns and villages, each with its own character and offerings.

1. Bar Harbor:

The most popular town on the island, Bar Harbor is the main hub for tourism and the closest community to Acadia National Park. Known for its walkable downtown, lively waterfront, great restaurants, and access to boat tours and hiking trails, Bar Harbor is the perfect base for visitors exploring the island.

2. Mount Desert:

The town of Mount Desert includes several quiet villages like Northeast Harbor and Seal Harbor, known for their upscale homes, harbors filled with yachts, and peaceful, uncrowded beauty. This side of the island is a favorite for those seeking tranquility.

3. Southwest Harbor:

Located on the "quiet side" of the island, Southwest Harbor offers a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s home to shops, galleries, and boatyards, as well as the Wendell Gilley Museum. It’s also a gateway to trails on the western side of Acadia, such as Beech Mountain and St. Sauveur Mountain.

4. Tremont:

Tremont includes small communities like Bass Harbor, famous for the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, one of the most photographed spots in Maine. This is another excellent location to enjoy the quieter side of Mount Desert Island.

Acadia National Park: The Island’s Crown Jewel

The heart of Mount Desert Island is Acadia National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Acadia National Park covers about 47,000 acres on Mount Desert Island. The park protects nearly half of the island, offering visitors a vast network of trails, scenic drives, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. Acadia is renowned for its 125 miles (200 kilometers) of hiking trails, many of which traverse mountain ridges with sweeping ocean views or wind through serene forests. Some popular hikes include the Precipice Trail, Beehive Trail, and Jordan Pond Path, each offering different levels of difficulty and unique perspectives on the island's diverse terrain.

The park also features 45 miles (72 kilometers) of historic carriage roads, originally constructed by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the early 20th century. These roads, accessible to pedestrians, cyclists, and horse-drawn carriages, provide a scenic way to explore the park while preserving its natural beauty.

Acadia National Park offering an extensive network of:

◉ Hiking trails (over 150 miles)

◉ Carriage roads built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. for biking and walking

◉ Scenic drives, especially the 27-mile Park Loop Road

◉ Lakes and ponds perfect for kayaking or picnicking, such as Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake

◉ Tide pools and beaches, offering glimpses into the coastal ecosystem

History and Cultural Significance

Mount Desert Island has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The Wabanaki people, Native Americans who have lived in the region for at least 12,000 years, called the island “Pemetic,” meaning “the land of the mountains.” They hunted, fished, and gathered food in the area, living in harmony with its ecosystems.

The island was first documented by Europeans in 1604, when French explorer Samuel de Champlain sailed into the area and gave the island its current name, "Île des Monts Déserts," which translates to "Island of Bare Mountains." This name was inspired by the island's rocky, barren mountaintops that contrast with its lush forests. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, European settlers arrived on the island, establishing small fishing and farming communities.

In the 19th century, artists from the Hudson River School popularized the area’s beauty through their paintings.

In the late 19th century, Mount Desert Island became a popular summer destination for wealthy families from the Northeast, including figures like John D. Rockefeller, J.P. Morgan, and the Astor family. These "rusticators," as they were called, built grand summer estates and helped preserve much of the island's natural beauty. Their influence led to the establishment of Acadia National Park in 1916, making it the first national park east of the Mississippi River.

Ecology and Wildlife

The island’s diverse ecosystems are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Mount Desert Island’s forests consist primarily of spruce, fir, and pine, as well as hardwoods like maple, oak, and birch. The island’s many wetlands, streams, and ponds support species such as beavers, otters, and amphibians. The island is also an important stopover for migratory birds, with species like warblers, peregrine falcons, and bald eagles frequently seen in the area.

Marine life is abundant in the waters surrounding the island, with seals, porpoises, and a variety of fish species calling the area home. Frenchman Bay, in particular, is a popular location for observing whales, with humpback, finback, and minke whales often sighted during the summer months.

Recreation and Tourism

Mount Desert Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the extensive hiking opportunities provided by Acadia National Park, visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as cycling, rock climbing, and horseback riding. The island's lakes and ponds, including the pristine Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake, offer opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. The surrounding waters are popular for sailing and fishing, with lobster fishing being an iconic activity in the region.

For those interested in more leisurely pursuits, the island’s villages offer a variety of cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and theaters. The Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor, for instance, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Wabanaki people, while the Islesford Historical Museum on Little Cranberry Island offers a glimpse into the island’s maritime past.

Conclusion

Mount Desert Island’s combination of rugged natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether visitors come for the stunning views from Cadillac Mountain, the tranquil hikes along the carriage roads, or the charming towns, the island leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. With its role as the gateway to Acadia National Park and its deep connection to Maine’s maritime heritage, Mount Desert Island continues to be a beloved and treasured part of the northeastern United States.