How to Visit Mount Desert's Western Side at Acadia National Park in Maine

Many visitors to Acadia National Park in Maine opt for the Park Loop Road with its breathtaking views of waves crashing against the rocky Atlantic Coast; however, a less-traveled alternative, or addition, to Park Loop Road may be to visit the western side of Mount Desert Island. Acadia National Park is, in fact, an island, joined to the mainland by only one bridge. There are several coastal ranges, as well as ponds and lakes that define the western side.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Good walking shoes
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Water
• Camera

The Acadia Less Traveled

1. Pick up an Acadia National Park map from the Hull's Cove Visitor Center. Dividing the eastern and western sections of the park is Somes Sound. State Highway 198 to Somesville can be accessed from State Highway 233 out of the village of Bar Harbor.

2. Take State Highway 102 south from Somesville, briefly, before the turn-off to Pretty Marsh Road. This road exits right and follows the western side of the island to Bass Harbor.

3. Turn off Pretty Marsh Road at the National Park directional sign identifying Pretty Marsh. Pretty Marsh is a deeply forested rise above Blue Hill Bay. There are several places to park and a relatively easy trail down to the shore.

4. Return to the main road and continue southward to Seal Cove. The extensive pond to the left, with the enticingly wooded island in the center, feeds Seal Cove. You are on the park boundary here and should be respectful of the several private residences off the main road. Seal Cove offers several great photo opportunities.

5. Opt to take the Seal Cove Road to the Western Mountain Road and reach one of many trails that approach the peaks of the Western range. These peaks aren't as high in elevation as the more popular Cadillac Mountain on the eastern side, but they offer more solitude and an equally breathtaking view of Acadia.

6. Return to Pretty Marsh Road and continue south toward Bass Harbor. South of Seal Cove the name of the road changes to Tremont Road. At Bass Harbor, take State Highway 102A into the village and follow directional signs to the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.

7. Park in the designated area and take a brief walk down to the lighthouse at the southernmost point of the island, but note that it is closed to the public. There are several accessible trails that reach the coast from here.

8. Leave Bass Harbor, turning northward now on 102A and stop at the Sea Wall. This area is where the road actually meets the Atlantic. Waves crashing over jumbled rocks spray many visitors. There are sandy areas where you can stop and play.

9. Photograph the boats tethered in Southwest Harbor before rejoining State Highway 102. There are several shops and places to dine in this small enclave.

10. Continue north on 102 and choose two separate views of Echo Lake. The southern shore, or first entrance to the lake, offers freshwater swimming while the Ikes Point entrance offers a boat ramp. After a lengthy time at the lake, return to the main highway and complete the loop back to Somesville.

Tips & Warnings

• Summer is obviously the best season to visit the island. Note that the water temperature of both the Atlantic and the swimming areas gets warmer as the season progresses. During autumn, the island complements the rest of New England with its colorful foliage. There are several accommodations on the western side of Mount Desert Island where you can dine and stay. Seasonal reservations at hotels and camping are recommended. Nearby Bar Harbor offers all amenities.
• Be prepared for sudden "nor'easters," severe weather conditions arriving from Greenland and the Maritime Provinces and circling extensively along the New England coastline. These storms can be challenging even in the summer and fall.

References

• Acadia National Park Website