13 Most Amazing Facts about Acadia National Park

5 min readOct 24, 2023

Acadia National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the United States for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located on the coast of Maine, the park covers an area of 47,000 acres and offers a stunning variety of landscapes, wildlife, and activities. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous challenge, Acadia National Park has something for everyone. Here are 10 amazing facts about Acadia National Park that will make you want to visit this spectacular place.

If you want to know about each and everything about Acadia National Park then you should check this guide- Acadia National Park- A Complete Guide to Explore the Natural Beauty, here you will get to know about everything from entrance fee to best places.

Here Are 10 Amazing Facts About Acadia National Park Which You Should Know

1. Acadia National Park was named after a region of Greece

The park was originally established as Sieur de Monts National Monument in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson, after a French explorer who claimed the area for France in 1604. In 1919, the park was renamed Lafayette National Park, in honor of the French general who fought in the American Revolution. In 1929, the park was finally renamed Acadia National Park, after the ancient name for a region of Greece that was known for its rugged and independent people.

2. Acadia National Park is home to the highest point on the east coast of the United States

Cadillac Mountain, which rises to 1,528 feet above sea level, is not only the highest peak in Acadia National Park, but also the highest point along the entire east coast of the United States. From October to March, Cadillac Mountain is also the first place in the United States to see the sunrise. You can drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain or hike one of the several trails that lead to the top.

3. Acadia National Park has more than 150 miles of hiking trails

If you love hiking, Acadia National Park is a paradise for you. The park has more than 150 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous, and offer scenic views of the mountains, forests, lakes, and ocean. Some of the most popular trails include the Ocean Path, which follows the rocky shoreline; the Beehive Trail, which involves climbing iron rungs and ladders; and the Precipice Trail, which is a steep and exposed climb to the summit of Champlain Mountain.

4. Acadia National Park has the only fjord on the east coast of the United States

A fjord is a long and narrow inlet of water that is surrounded by steep cliffs and formed by glacial erosion. Acadia National Park has the only fjord on the east coast of the United States, called Somes Sound. Somes Sound is about five miles long and one mile wide, and divides Mount Desert Island into two parts. You can explore Somes Sound by boat, kayak, or canoe, and enjoy the views of the mountains and wildlife.

5. Acadia National Park has more than 50 species of mammals

The diverse habitats of Acadia National Park support a rich variety of wildlife, including more than 50 species of mammals. Some of the most common mammals that you can see in the park are white-tailed deer, moose, black bears, red foxes, raccoons, beavers, porcupines, and squirrels. You can also spot some rare and endangered mammals in Acadia National Park, such as lynx, bobcats, river otters

6. Acadia National Park is the only national park in New England

Acadia National Park is the only national park in the six states that make up the New England region: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. The park was also the first national park east of the Mississippi River. The park attracts visitors from all over the country and the world, who come to enjoy its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

7. Acadia National Park has the oldest public wild gardens in the United States

The Wild Gardens of Acadia, located at Sieur de Monts Spring, were established in 1961 by a group of volunteers who wanted to preserve and display the native plants of Acadia National Park. The gardens feature more than 400 species of plants, arranged in 12 habitats that represent the different ecosystems of the park. The gardens are open year-round and offer guided tours, educational programs, and special events.

8. Acadia National Park has one of the largest collections of historic stone bridges in the country

The park has 17 stone bridges that span streams, waterfalls, cliffs, and roads. The bridges were built between 1917 and 1935 by John D. Rockefeller Jr., a philanthropist who donated land and funds to the park. The bridges were designed to blend with the natural landscape and reflect the local architecture. They are made of native granite and feature various styles, such as arches, vaults, and buttresses.

9. Acadia National Park has a rich maritime history

The park’s coastline and islands have been inhabited by Native Americans, explorers, fishermen, shipbuilders, sailors, and lighthouse keepers for centuries. The park’s waters have also witnessed many shipwrecks, battles, and rescues. Some of the historic sites that reflect the park’s maritime history include the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, the Islesford Historical Museum, and the Somesville Historical Museum.

10. Acadia National Park has a unique night sky

The park is one of the best places in the eastern United States to observe the stars, planets, and other celestial objects5. The park has low light pollution and clear air quality, which create ideal conditions for stargazing. The park also hosts an annual Acadia Night Sky Festival, which features star parties, workshops, lectures, and other activities to celebrate and protect the dark sky.

Conclusion

These are some of the amazing facts about Acadia National Park that you can include in your travel article. Acadia National Park is a place of wonder and beauty, where you can experience the best of nature and culture. Whether you want to hike, bike, kayak, or just relax, Acadia National Park has something for everyone. If you are planning to visit Acadia National Park, make sure to book your trip in advance and follow the park’s rules and regulations. You will not regret visiting this incredible national park.