From June 23 to early October, Island Explorer buses provide service between park destinations, local communities, and the Bar Harbor-Hancock County Regional Airport. Regularly scheduled buses stop at specific destinations in the park—including campgrounds, carriage road entrances, and many trailheads. You can also flag down buses along their route; drivers will pick up passengers anywhere it is safe to stop.

By parking your car and riding the propane-powered buses, you help reduce traffic congestion, parking, and air pollution problems on the island.

The Island Explorer was established in the late 1990s as a unique partnership between:

• National Park Service
• U.S. Department of Transportation
• Maine Department of Transportation
• Friends of Acadia
• Six municipalities
• Private businesses

Downeast Transportation, Inc., a nonprofit organization, operates the fleet of propane-powered buses. Your entrance fees help support the Island Explorer; by paying your fee, you help ensure that the system will remain fare-free.

You can pick up a schedule on the buses or at any park contact station, or visit the Island Explorer website for more information.