News Release
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Contact: Christie Anastasia, 207-288-8806
BAR HARBOR, MAINE – Due to last winter’s weather patterns Seal Cove Road, Western Mountain Road, and Lurvey Spring Road in Acadia National Park will have delayed openings to motor vehicles. These unpaved roads have deep ruts, exposed culverts, and downed wood creating unsafe conditions. Unpaved roads generally have their gates closed around November 15 and are reopened by May 15, weather and conditions permitting.
“We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our neighbors and park visitors with these temporary delays to allow these unpaved roads to be opened safely,” said Superintendent Kevin Schneider.
Priority will be to open Seal Cove Road, then the Western Mountain Road (and connecting unpaved roads) to motor vehicles, and then the Lurvey Spring Road. Last winter’s repeated patterns of freezing rain, thawing, and melting snow impacted Lurvey Spring Road the most. This road is traditionally maintained to standards linked to the overall lower level of traffic. The resulting damage means the Lurvey Spring Road may open much later or not at all.
The unpaved roads mentioned above are open to pedestrians and bicyclists. Bicyclists should exercise caution, as some ruts are very deep and traverse the entire width of the road. Some unpaved roads also have downed wood across all or part of the road. When park crews are working to open these roads, there may be temporary closures if the road is too narrow to safely allow pedestrian and bicycle access alongside heavy equipment.
Seal Cove Road connects Seal Cove and Southwest Harbor (2.17 miles). The Western Mountain Road runs north of the Seal Cover road and provides access to the southeastern shore of Seal Cove Pond (3.32 miles, including connecting unpaved roads). Lurvey Spring Road connects Echo Lake Beach Road and Long Pond Road in Southwest Harbor (1.22 miles).
To stay updated on temporary closures visit http://go.nps.gov/AcadiaAlerts
Last updated: May 9, 2018