Contact: Keith Johnston, 207-288-8750
"Maine has experienced record-breaking snowfall this year and we are still trying to find places to put all this snow as we try to clear roads," said Acadia Superintendent Sheridan Steele. "Our advice to all travelers planning to visit Acadia this spring is that they come prepared to experience frozen or very wet conditions. The park is open but some of the roads and facilities may still be covered by snow and ice. Bring your snowshoes, skis, and coats to enjoy the snow and fully access the park." "The Park Loop Road opening may be delayed slightly to give the park time to clear the road, and it's possible that some sections of the road may open before others," said Chief of Maintenance Keith Johnston. "Because of the excessive ice and snow, the road may not be a safe place to rice bicycles before it opens, as in past years. If you're out on Park Loop Road before it opens, expect heavy equipment on the road and exercise caution. For the most current status of park roads and facilities, visit Acadia's website: www.nps.gov/acad/playyourvisit/conditions.htm." The Ocean Drive section of Park Loop Road remains open all winter, as does the area around Jordan Pond. Ocean Drive offers some of the most spectacular views in Acadia, including Sand Beach. If there is still snow at Jordan Pond, it's a great place for snowshoeing. Hulls Cove Visitor Center will open on April 15 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm daily, so even if Park Loop Road isn't fully opened to vehicles, you may watch the orientation film, browse the bookstore, and obtain information about other things you can do in the park, including safe hiking trails. "Because of extensive sewage system repairs taking place at Blackwoods Campground, there won't be water available until May 1," added Johnston. "Campers, including RV campers, will be able to access part of the campground in April but the bathrooms won't be open and there will be no dumping station provided. Portable toilets and a hand pump for water are located near the open sites. Self-registration is available at the kiosk, and there is no fee until the water is back on." The 45 miles of carriage roads in the park are usually closed around the end of March and the first two weeks of April because of soft conditions. This year, however, those dates may advance further into April depending on the freeze/thaw cycle. The schedule for opening of park roads and carriage roads is completely dependent on the weather, so it may change at any time. For further updates, call the park at 207-288-3338 or visit Current Conditions. You may also follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AcadiaNPS) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/AcadiaNPS). |
Last updated: March 16, 2015