My husband and I recently went to Acadia National Park for our 5th wedding anniversary. It was the best trip we’ve ever taken. Spectacular views, warm sun, cool breeze, and flowers in abundance… It couldn’t have been more perfect!

The park itself is located on Mt. Desert Island, Maine. You can get a very good overview by driving the loop road, but there are so many trails and paths that it’s hard to get very far without stopping at every breathtaking overlook. We walked over 10 miles each of the first 2 days we were there.

There’s so much to discover! Lighthouses, a beach (with very cold water), trails through diverse forest that extend to the rocky coastline, a field of lupine – so much beauty! The colors are saturated – deep blue sky and ocean with dark green trees. Besides the ocean, there are also several freshwater lakes. One of the lakes we explored was 150 feet deep and clear up to 40 feet.

Just outside of the park is the charming town of Bar Harbor with cute shops and wonderful restaurants. If you like blueberries, then you’re in luck! Besides blueberry pie available everywhere, many places offer blueberry cake, tarts, ice cream, coffee, tea, soda, pancakes, chocolate-covered blueberries, and even frozen blueberry margaritas! You can also rent a bike and take them out on 40 miles of carriage roads where no cars are allowed. I also suggest the whale-watching tours.

If you ever get a chance to visit Acadia National Park, don’t hesitate. You won’t regret it!

 - Laura, Mast Store Asheville

For more of our Mast Family National Park Service adventures and recommendations, click HERE