Spring in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

Spring in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park
You know how it goes – On frigid days, spring can seem like a faraway dream, but then the clouds clear, the sun makes an appearance, and the promise of warmer days fills you with intense happiness. Whether it feels like it or not, spring will come – and now is the best time to plan your trip.
 
A relatively quiet time of year, spring is a great season to take advantage of Acadia’s popular trails and Bar Harbor’s shopping and restaurants, just as they begin to open their doors again. You’ll revel in uncrowded attractions, sunny afternoons and the sights, smells and sounds that is nature waking up from winter once again.
 
Weather & What to Pack
Springtime in Bar Harbor and Acadia can mean crisp air, ample sunshine and showers (and flowers). If that sounds like it runs the gamut, you may be right. It’s the time for layers, layers and more layers. Sweaters, sweatshirts, jackets and raincoats are your friend during these months, where temperatures range from 30-70 F. Throw a warm jacket in your pack when you head out – temperatures at mountain peaks can be drastically different from Bar Harbor weather.
 
Things to Do

1. Spring Hiking 
The ponds and lakes have thawed, the birds are chirping and sunlight is filtering through the trees. Immerse yourself in the springtime world of Acadia National Park with a hike. Whether you choose a nature walk along the wildflower-dotted fields of Jordan Pond Loop, or hike up the rocky path of Great Head Trail and do some birding, Acadia National Park’s lands offer endless beauty and peaceful spots to pause and reflect. Be sure to check the park’s current conditions page for the latest information on trail conditions and mud season closures.

2. Biking and Bike Rentals 
There’s nothing quite like the spring sunshine warming your cheeks as you ride your bike after a long winter. And while bikes are not permitted on hiking trails, you have the entire 27-mile Park Loop Road to enjoy, along with 45 miles of carriage roads (again, be sure to stay up to date on the current conditions of trails). Need a bike? Acadia Bike opens May 1 for bike rentals! 

3. Shopping
Forget to bring an extra cozy sweatshirt? What about Maine maple syrup? Or craving some charcuterie for a post-hike picnic? Bar Harbor has you covered. This is the time of year when things begin to open up again, so store hours vary. Be sure to check the store’s website or give them a call.

4. Explore Mount Desert Island’s Gardens
Not far from the charm of Bar Harbor and expansive lands of Acadia are a couple of beautifully maintained gardens. Celebrate the return of spring with a trip to the Wild Gardens of Acadia, where you’ll bear witness to over 400 indigenous plant species across their serene landscapes. Or, head to the Asticou Azalea Garden (opening in early May), to wander the paths of Japanese-inspired gardens and appreciate the fragrant blooms.
 
Exciting Spring 2022 Updates
 
The CAT Ferry Returns!
The international high-speed ferry service between Bar Harbor, Maine, and Yarmouth, Novia Scotia is planned to resume in May.
 
Book your trip!
 
Plan Your Trip with Our NEW App
We’re excited to have launched a new mobile app earlier this year that assists you with planning your trip to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Download it on the Apple Store and Google Play. Create your perfect Bar Harbor and Acadia itinerary, share it with others and get turn-by-turn directions to your desired destination.

Photo by Heather & Maine