Acadia All-American Road

Story of the Byway

Long before the French explorer Samuel Champlain "discovered'' L'Isles des Monts Deserts (Mount Desert Island) and the British and French fought nearly 100 years for sovereignty over the region, Native cultures made this beautiful island their home. In the first half of the 20th century, a number of wealthy families built sprawling shingle-style cottages with John D. Rockefeller, Jr., contributing a vast network of carriage roads. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park are the most frequently visited locations in Maine. Travelers can bike to their heart's content on miles of interconnected carriage roads - and hike one of 26 mountains. Plus, 22 lakes and ponds, beaches and natural wonders provide plenty of relaxation.

The byway first follows Route 3 from Trenton to Bar Harbor. While in Trenton, visitors looking for a night of music and dance should be sure to visit the Trenton Grange on the third Saturday of the month for Trenton’s Contra Dance. Food and beverages are provided for all, and the event is great for families with no experience required. Continuing along route 3, visitors will cross Thompson Island, named for the Revolutionary War colonel who owned the island in the late 1700s. At the visitors center, visitors will find helpful rangers and staff and a wealth of park information, park passes, maps, and books. Visitors should be sure to enjoy the interpretive display panels and the Thompson Island Picnic Area, where picnickers can enjoy a wonderful view across the water of Mount Desert Narrows at the head of Frenchman Bay to mainland Trenton and views of Thomas Island, the largest of the three-island archipelago.

The route then continues into Bar Harbor. Bar Harbor is a charming New England town, and it is the largest town on Mount Desert Island. Visitors will enjoy exploring the picturesque downtown, vibrant art scene, and the great outdoors. Throughout the year, there are many cultural events and tours available downtown for visitors to explore. Visitors should also be sure to take advantage of the many opportunities for water recreation during the summer. They can learn how to paddle board, travel on a windjammer cruise, or go kayaking to get closer to the many seals, porpoises, bald eagles, and other extraordinary wildlife in the Bar Harbor area. Bar Harbor is known for its fresh seafood--caught, delivered,cooked and served straight from the boat. Visitors should be sure to check out some of Bar Harbor’s local restaurants for endless sea-to-table options.

The byway then loops into Acadia National Park. Acadia National Park falls in the top ten list of most visited parks in the United States, welcoming more than three million travelers every year. Visitors can take a step back in time by taking a carriage ride through the park. The well-marked roads wander through Acadia National Park, covering long, shady stretches of woodland, skirting peaceful lakes and ponds, circling mountain elevations, and showcasing breathtaking views of the Atlantic and nearby islands. Visitors will be able to explore the many trails, which offer opportunities to everyone from casual walkers to seasoned triathletes.