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![]() NPS Map by Rebecca Holdhusen Scenic DrivesAlthough state and county roads on Mount Desert Island are plowed throughout the winter, only two short sections of the Park Loop Road are open to vehicles in winter, with the rest serving as designated snowmobile routes. Park roads are plowed and sanded only during daylight hours. Be prepared to encounter heavy snow and icy conditions. Coastal Scenic Drive:(Includes shoreline from Sand Beach to Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff.) Jordan Pond Area:Follow Route 3 from Bar Harbor to Seal Harbor. In Seal Harbor, take a sharp right turn at Jordan Pond Road. In about a mile, this road joins a short section of the Park Loop Road which remains plowed to the south end of Jordan Pond. Exit by backtracking. Sargent Drive:Sargent Drive skirts the shore of Somes Sound. Carved by glaciers, the steep granite walls drop to the sea forming a fiard, a coastal inlet similar to a fiord. Follow Route 198 toward Northeast Harbor. Continue past the junction of Route 233, driving 1.2 miles. Turn right at a sign indicating Sargent Drive. Public RestroomsSeven public restrooms are maintained across the park through winter –
Winter HikingHave fun, but please put your safety first while exploring Acadia. Your safety depends on your own good judgment.
![]() Cross-Country Skiing and SnowshoeingForty-five miles (72 km) of carriage roads in the park offer the perfect setting for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You may also cross-country ski on unplowed park roads. Be careful, as these are designated snowmobile routes.
![]() Carriage Roads Are Open To Multiple Recreational UsesPermitted recreational uses include walking, running, bicycling, snowshoeing, and skiing.
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![]() Ice FishingIce fishing is a popular activity in Acadia when weather conditions permit. Freshwater fishing requires a state license, which can be obtained at town offices, local businesses, and online at www.maine.gov/ifw/ Dog Sledding and SkijoringThe use of dog sleds, dog carts, and skijoring with dogs is prohibited in the park due to the 6 foot (1.8 m) leash requirement per 36 CFR § 2.15(a)(2). SnowmobilingSnowmobile travel is allowed on the 27-mile (43 km) Park Loop Road system (including the road up Cadillac Mountain) and most fire roads. Maps of the east side and west side show snowmobile routes and parking. Snowmobile regulations include:
Snowmobilers are encouraged to utilize the Hulls Cove Visitor Center parking lot to access the winter snowmobile routes. Snowmobile rental is not available on Mount Desert Island. ![]() Photo courtesy of James Couture. Used with permission. |
Last updated: April 13, 2023