At Somes Sound, large granite stones separate the parking area on the edge of Sargent's Drive from the grassy bank sloping down to the bay. At times, a passing boat leaves a frothy wake or a colorful kayak paddles by. Across the water, mountains meet the sky. A wayside exhibit features an informational panel angled atop two of the granite stones.
The exhibit's title, "Seawater Bay," appears in a misty sky over a view of forested mountains across a quiet five-mile-long bay. Text explains that "Somes Sound nearly divides Mount Desert Island in half." The text encourages visitors to visit the quieter places on the west side of the park, many of which are highlighted in this view.
Introductory text reads: "You are standing by Somes Sound, one of only a few US fjards - glacially carved valleys drowned by the sea ... English homesteaders Abraham and Hannah Somes and James and Rachel Richardson settled their families in 1761 at the head of the bay at what is now called Somesville. Schooners and merchant ships soon plied these waters with loads of lumber, fish, and granite. Today, residents and visitors alike relish the scenery on foot, or by water on sailboats, tour boats, and kayaks."
Labels identify the sights across the bay:
-Flying Mountain offers panoramic views and a trail down to the cobbled shoreline at Valley Cove.
-With its steep trail to the summit, Valley Peak reveals views of Southwest Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.
-At St. Sauveur Mountain, a gradual climb provides the easiest access to stunning views overlooking Valley Cove.
-Acadia Mountain's steep trail rewards hikers with outstanding views of Somes Sound.
A note explains that Somes Sound is 150 feet at its deepest point, but decreases to about 30 feet at its entrance, called The Narrows.
Three photographs show different kinds of vessels:
-a historic photograph shows a tall four-masted schooner from the 1940s, its sails furled. "Large vessels like this ... still cruise these waters today."
-The second photographs shows a lobster boat with a pile of lobster traps in the stern. "For generations, lobstermen have hauled traps and harvested the bounty of the Sound."
-The third photograph shows two colorful kayaks gliding across the bay. "Kayaking these waters is not for beginners. The bay reels with choppy waves on windy days."
