The best time to visit Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island will depend, of course, on what you’re hoping to get from your trip. Personally, we’d recommend visiting in September or October so you can see the stunning colors as the leaves change. Be warned though; the daytime temperatures drop to the 40s and 50s during the fall, so you’ll want to bundle up when you go. If you do visit in the autumn, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous vistas and relatively few crowds.
If you want to avoid crowds altogether, you can brave the harsh Maine winter and visit in November, December, or January. The winter weather on the island is often below freezing and many of the restaurants and hotels close during these months. However, Acadia National Park is transformed every year into a winter wonderland, complete with opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.
The snow starts to melt in March, but the early spring is still considered the off-season on Mount Desert Island. Certain areas of the park are closed during these months, but you’re unlikely to run into any crowds when you visit. Just make sure you bring hiking boots as the snow melts and turns the ground into mud.
The summer on Mount Desert Island is pleasant and mild, so most people visit during this time. The temperatures range from the 50s to the 70s, so make sure you bring a sweater for chillier days. The main town on the island, Bar Harbor, is fully open during the summer, but be prepared to fight through crowds of tourists for the most popular attractions.
To make the most of your next trip to Mount Desert Island, check out our Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Self-Guided Walking and Driving Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ to gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
Essential Travel Guide:
