The Park Loop Road
Acadia National Park, Maine

The 27 mile Park Loop Road is the primary avenue for navigating through Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island by vehicle. It begins near the Hulls Cove Visitor Center and connects Acadia's lakes, mountains, forests and rocky shores for easy exploration. Much of the road is one way but there is a two way section that begins near Wildwood Stables so keep this in mind. A fee is required and may be paid near its entrance, about one-half mile north of Sand Beach at the entrance station. If you are in Bar Harbor, you may also go a short distance South on Route 3 to get to the Park Loop Road. Just past the famous Jackson Laboratory is an Acadia National Park sign and entrance on the right. Sieur de Monts Spring is also at this location and well worth the visit.

There are many places to park along the way so take advantage of them. And don't be afraid to check out surrounding areas but always use caution whenever near the shore and especially when near the high cliffs.

As you may guess, construction of the Park Loop Road was a huge undertaking and one which began in 1922 and continued through the 1950's. It was partially financed by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., who was the father of the park's Carriage Roads. A large part of the beautiful and sensitive design, often taken for granted, is attributed to the talents of landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., who artfully combined functional aspects of a road system with the indigenous landscape. There is much to discover here. Drive slowly as there is an abundance of wildlife, magnificent forests and plant life to view.