Park Loop Road

The Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park, located on the rugged coast of Maine, is one of the most scenic drives in the United States. This 27-mile road offers visitors a chance to experience the park’s diverse landscapes, from rocky shorelines and coastal forests to stunning mountain vistas. The loop provides access to some of Acadia’s most iconic locations, including Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Jordan Pond.

Park Loop Road

History and Construction

The construction of Park Loop Road began in the 1920s as part of an effort to make the natural beauty of Acadia National Park more accessible to visitors. It was constructed between 1921 and 1958.

The road was largely financed and overseen by John D. Rockefeller Jr., who was instrumental in developing the park’s carriage roads as well. Rockefeller worked closely with landscape architects and engineers to ensure that the road harmonized with the natural environment. The goal was to create a route that would enhance, rather than detract from, the park’s wild beauty, with minimal disturbance to the surrounding terrain.

Today, Park Loop Road is not only a functional route through the park but also an engineering marvel, designed to blend into Acadia’s unique landscape.

Park Loop Road

Key Features Along Park Loop Road

1. Cadillac Mountain

At 1,530 feet, Cadillac Mountain is the highest peak along the eastern seaboard of the United States and one of the first places in the country to see the sunrise. A spur road from the loop leads to the summit, where visitors are greeted with panoramic views of Mount Desert Island, Frenchman Bay, and the surrounding islands. During the fall, the mountain is particularly popular for its vibrant foliage.

2. Sand Beach

One of the few sandy beaches in Acadia, Sand Beach is nestled between rocky cliffs and wooded hills. The 290-yard stretch of sand, composed mostly of shell fragments, is an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Swimming is allowed, although the water tends to be quite cold even in the summer. The beach can be accessed directly from the loop road and is a starting point for the popular Ocean Path Trail, which runs along the rugged coastline.

3. Thunder Hole

A must-see along Park Loop Road, Thunder Hole is a natural rock formation where the waves crash into a narrow inlet. At certain tide levels, the incoming surf creates a thunderous boom, sending plumes of spray high into the air. A set of stairs and railings allow visitors to safely view this powerful natural phenomenon up close.

4. Otter Cliffs

Further down the road, Otter Cliffs rise dramatically 110 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. One of the highest coastal headlands north of Rio de Janeiro, Otter Cliffs offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for photographers and climbers. The nearby Otter Point also offers quieter, more secluded viewing opportunities for those looking to escape the crowds.

5. Jordan Pond

A jewel of Acadia, Jordan Pond is a glacially formed tarn bordered by mountains on three sides, including the striking Bubbles to the north. The clear, reflective waters of the pond offer some of the best photo opportunities in the park. Visitors can stop at the Jordan Pond House for a traditional meal of popovers and tea, a tradition that dates back to the 1800s. A 3.3-mile loop trail circles the pond, providing visitors with an easy-to-moderate hike through woods and across a boardwalk.

6. Atlantic Ocean

Ocean Drive, a section of the Park Loop Road, follows the rugged coastline of Mount Desert Island, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and opportunities for photography and coastal exploration.

The Experience of Driving Park Loop Road

Park Loop Road is designed as a one-way road for most of its length, allowing for a leisurely drive with opportunities to pull over at numerous scenic viewpoints. In the summer, the road can be quite busy, and visitors are encouraged to arrive early in the day or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. The road is open seasonally, from April 15 through December 1, although exact dates may vary depending on the weather.

As you travel along Park Loop Road, you’ll pass through diverse ecosystems, from coastal forests dominated by spruce and fir to open granite expanses dotted with lichen and low-lying shrubs. The route also showcases the park’s dramatic granite cliffs and boulder-strewn shorelines, shaped by the relentless forces of wind and water over millennia.

Cyclists are also welcome on Park Loop Road, and many take advantage of the slower speeds and scenic pull-offs to enjoy a more immersive experience. For those who prefer not to drive, the Island Explorer Shuttle provides free transportation through much of the park, including Park Loop Road, from late June through early October.

Wildlife and Photography

Driving Park Loop Road offers abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors might spot white-tailed deer, foxes, or even the occasional black bear. Birdwatchers will find plenty to enjoy as well, with opportunities to see species like ospreys, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons. Along the coastal sections of the road, harbor seals are often seen basking on the rocks or swimming in the waters just offshore.

Photographers will find no shortage of subjects along the loop. Whether it's the golden light of dawn illuminating the peaks of Cadillac Mountain, the mist rising from the ocean at Thunder Hole, or the calm, glassy waters of Jordan Pond reflecting the surrounding hills, the drive is a visual feast.

Park Loop Road Tips

1. Arrive Early: Especially during the summer, the road can become quite congested. Arriving early in the morning allows for a quieter, more peaceful experience and better chances of finding parking at popular spots like Sand Beach or Jordan Pond.

2. Watch for Wildlife: Animals frequently cross the road, especially at dawn and dusk, so it’s important to drive slowly and keep an eye out.

3. Stay Hydrated: Even though the drive is leisurely, many of the pull-offs lead to hiking trails or scenic walks. Carry water and wear appropriate clothing if you plan to explore on foot.

4. Respect the Environment: Stay on designated paths and avoid disturbing wildlife. Pack out any trash and follow all park regulations to help preserve the beauty of Acadia.

Conclusion

Acadia National Park’s Park Loop Road is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the northeastern United States. Whether you're interested in hiking, photography, wildlife viewing, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, the loop provides a perfect introduction to the park’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty. From the majestic heights of Cadillac Mountain to the crashing waves at Thunder Hole, this iconic road captures the essence of what makes Acadia a national treasure.