It’s no secret—Acadia National Park in fall is like no other. Of course, much of New England benefits from a beautiful blanket of autumn colors. But there’s something about the juxtaposition of the Atlantic Ocean and the pink granite mountains of Mount Desert Island with the orange, red, and yellow leaves that makes this time of year extra special. Add lobster rolls and some of the best hiking around and it’s clear why fall is one of the most popular times to visit Bar Harbor.
With big summer vacations complete and kids back in school, weekend trips become a popular option for visiting our Downeast island. If you’re considering a 2-3 trip to Bar Harbor in the fall, check out this itinerary to get the most out of our favorite season.
What’s Acadia in the Fall Like?
Cruise ships continue to dock through the end of October and Acadia remains a popular weekend destination so you can expect to be among plenty of fellow visitors. Visit on a weekday to enjoy a little additional quiet. Aside from special work areas, the entirety of Acadia remains open in the fall so you’ll still have access to all the best sights and activities in the park.
From September through November, you can expect daytime temperatures anywhere between the 40’s and 60’s with nights in the low 30’s. While there may be some scattered rain here and there, it is typically a dry season, perfect for breaking out that LL Bean flannel and Carhartt jacket.
For the most part, shops and restaurants remain open in Bar Harbor in the fall, with some businesses limiting their hours by the end of October. It’s always best to call ahead or check online if you’re interested in visiting a particular restaurant or retail location during your trip.
Peeping Acadia National Park Fall Foliage
You don’t have to hide it; we know why you’ve come! To witness the spectacular display of colors as the deciduous trees of our rich forests change with the season. While each year is a little different, if you want to catch peak fall foliage, visit Acadia National Park in October. Typically Acadia fall colors will be at their brightest between October 10th and 20th but you can always check Maine Foliage for weekly updates on this year’s vibrant transformations.
Of course, driving the Park Loop Road is great way to experience the colors of Acadia national park in the fall, but the best views are reserved for those willing to put in a little legwork. Walking or biking the carriage roads takes you past some of Acadia’s most iconic vistas like Eagle Lake, the Bubbles, and Wildwood Stables. We also love the sweeping views provided by the Gorham Mountain trail. And the gentle 1.5-mile Jesup and Hemlock path takes you on a curving boardwalk through golden stands of Birch and Hemlock before opening into the Great Meadow. You really can’t make a wrong turn visiting Acadia national park in the fall. Just note that sunset is between 5:30 and 6pm this time of year so you should be prepared with a headlamp if you’re hiking into the evening or plan to return to your car before then.
Pro Tip: Maine leaf peeping isn’t just limited to Acadia! If you have the time, we highly recommend making Acadia either the spectacular start or the grand finale of a larger fall foliage tour. Start your trip earlier in October, working your way from the West to catch peak foliage across Maine, hitting hot spots like Grafton Notch and the Androscoggin Riverlands. Or, follow the leaves as they change down Maine’s coast on scenic Route 1 from Bar Harbor to Camden, Portland, and Kennebunkport.
A Picture Perfect Lunch At Jordon Pond House
Ah, Jordan Pond House, Acadia National Park’s one and only restaurant. Situated on a hill overlooking beautiful gardens and Jordan Pond itself, the restaurant has been serving guests since 1893. Famous for their traditional popovers and tea, grabbing a table at this iconic Acadia is even more picturesque in autumn. Open through late October, visiting Acadia National Park in the fall gives you the chance to feel extra cozy while enjoying those famous popovers. A seat by the windows gives you both the stunning views and the warmth of being inside with a steaming cup of tea in hand. Visit when they open at 11am or just before close around 4pm for the shortest waits.
Birding in Acadia
Acadia is a favorite for birding enthusiasts year-round with more than 300 species inhabiting Mount Desert Island, including shore birds, sea birds, warblers, birds of prey, and so much more. Fall is one of two migration seasons, bringing opportunities to spot species as they travel south to winter territories. On windy days in late September, hundreds of migrating raptors flock through the park. In particular, Cadillac Mountain becomes a hub for birding in Acadia come autumn. You’re likely to spot Broad-wing Hawks, American Kestrels, and Sharp-shinned Hawks throughout the fall. In late October you may be lucky enough to get a glimpse of the Northern Goshawk or Golden Eagle.
Every fall, official counters, rangers, and volunteers gather atop Cadillac for the daily “Hawkwatch,” to identify and count raptors. In the last 25 years the community has tallied more than 71,000 birds and is always looking for extra hands. Join them any day of the week from 7am to 2pm to contribute to the efforts and learn from fellow birders. We recommend dressing in layers as weather on the peak can change quickly throughout the day.
Hike the Precipice Trail
Most summers, the popular Precipice Trail is closed to hikers to protect nesting Peregrine Falcons that populate its cliffs. However, by the end of August, the chicks have matured and are likely heading South for the season, opening the trail to eager visitors. A true demonstration of Acadia’s unique geography, the Precipice trail rises over 1,000 feet in just under a mile. It includes a series of iron rungs, ladders, and handrails that guide brave hikers along open cliff faces. This is a technical hike and not meant for the faint of heart but the journey is exhilarating and the reward is astonishing views.
Run (Or Cheer On) The MDI Marathon
Participants in the annual Mount Desert Island Marathon have the pleasure of racing one of America’s most scenic marathons. The race is held on October 20th and begins in downtown Bar Harbor before heading into Acadia to the finish line in Southwest Harbor. In addition to the full 26.2 mile race, there are simultaneous events for a half marathon, team relay, and kids run. Views of MDI’s tranquil lakes, soaring mountains, sleepy fishing villages, and the only fjord on the Eastern Seaboard are well worth the sweat. Residents come out in droves to cheer on the runners, some local and some “from away.”
Take in Maine History
Chilly autumn days are perfect for wandering museum halls, collecting interesting facts to share with friends over wine when you head back home. The Abbe Museum is the perfect choice. The first and only Smithsonian affiliate in Maine, the Abbe Museum has two locations: within Acadia, and in the heart of downtown Bar Harbor. Open through the end of October, the Abbe Museum sparks learning around the history and cultures of the Native people of Maine, the Wabanaki.
The Dorr Museum of Natural History, run by the College of the Atlantic, is also an excellent choice for nature lovers. Peruse their collection of wildlife dioramas, experience Maine’s marine creatures up close in the touch tank and be sure to check out their rotating exhibits with nature drawings, photography and more.
Between taking in the Acadia fall colors, hitting some of the park’s best trails, spotting some raptors, and more, you should have plenty to do on your visit to Bar Harbor in the fall. But when in doubt, we love to use the autumn season to slow down and relax. Enjoy a trip to The Spa at the Bar Harbor Inn, slowly sip a beer at Atlantic Brewing Company, or just hang out in your room! And if you want to experience an even more serene season on Mount Desert Island, stick around for the off-season—we promise there’s still plenty to do.