Park Loop Road

 

Photo by Ashley L. Conti, Friends of Acadia, NPS

The Scenic Route

The Park Loop Road is one of three types of major road systems on the island. Constructed between 1921 and 1958, it allows motor vehicles access to the park separate from local roads and non-motorized carriage roads.

This 27-mile (43 km) road is the go-to scenic drive around the east side of Mount Desert Island, connecting Acadia's lakes, mountains, and shoreline. It provides access to popular areas such as Sieur de Monts, Sand Beach, Otter Point, Jordan Pond, and Cadillac Mountain.

For the full "tour" experience, start at Hulls Cove Visitor Center. The road heads south along Paradise Hill Road before beginning the "loop" section. Follow signs for the one-way section to Sand Beach.

 

 

Park Loop Road Safety

Many of Acadia's most popular locations are located on the Park Loop Road. It is best to use a map and understand the traffic flow before starting.

• While there are many parking lots, parking also occurs in the right-hand lane of the Park Loop Road unless posted otherwise. Please be alert to parked cars, as well as cyclists maneuvering around them. This area is extremely congested in July and August.
• Follow posted speed limits ranging from 25 mph to 35 mph.
• Watch for visitors crossing the road and walking alongside the road.
• Be aware of wildlife along the road's edge, especially at dawn and dusk.

 

Explore Main Areas

 

 

Stops In Between

 

 

What Else to Know

All vehicles must display a park entrance pass anytime the park is being visited, including the Park Loop Road. Please display your pass so it is clearly visible through the front windshield.

During spring, summer, and fall months:

• The Park Loop Road can be very crowded. Have a back up plan if the area you wish to visit is full, or come back at a later time.

• Ride the fare-free Island Explorer if possible (typically mid-June to mid-Oct).

During winter months:

• Check alerts for road closures during the winter months. Only one section (Sand Beach Entrance Station to Otter Cliff Road) usually remains open to vehicles.

• Other portions are open to pedestrians, winter sports, and bicycles. Do not block gates when parking to access the road for recreational activities.