Drive Park Loop Road
Drive Park Loop Road
Wind through Acadia's 27-mile Park Loop Road—a one-way scenic circuit past coastal overlooks, mountain vistas, and forest-lined lakes. Expect peak-season crowding (mid-June through October), with parking along roadsides and pedestrians navigating the shoulders. Plan at least one hour for a straight drive-through; two to four hours lets you stop at major overlooks, picnic areas, and trailheads. The Island Explorer shuttle offers a free scenic alternative in summer if you'd rather leave the driving to someone else.
Quick facts
- Duration
- 1 hour minimum drive-through, 2-4 hours with stops at…
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Meeting point
- Hulls Cove Visitor Center or Paradise Hill Road intersection
✓ Book this if…
- You want classic Acadia scenery (coastal overlooks, mountain vistas, forest lakes) without hiking, and have 1-4 hours to spare.
- Scenic viewseekers, families, first-time park visitors, photography enthusiasts, anyone seeking iconic Acadia scenery without strenuous hiking.
× Skip it if…
- You dislike crowds or must visit mid-June through August—peak-season congestion fills parking spots and shoulder lanes with pedestrians and cyclists.
- Open year-round, though access varies. Mid-April through early December: full 27-mile loop accessible. December-March: only Sand Beach Entrance Station to Otter Cliff section rema…
Before you book
Do I need a separate ticket for driving Park Loop Road?
No. Access is included with your $35 park entrance pass (valid 7 days). The only exception is Cadillac Mountain Road, which requires a $6 vehicle reservation (May-October), booked separately at Recreation.gov.
How long should I plan to spend?
At minimum, one hour for a straight drive-through of the 27-mile loop. Most visitors spend 2-4 hours stopping at overlooks, picnic areas, and trailheads. Peak-season (July-August) can add time due to parking searches.
Is the road open year-round?
The full loop is typically open mid-April through early December. December-March, only the Sand Beach to Otter Cliff section is open to vehicles; other portions close to cars but remain open for hiking and winter sports.
Can I just show up, or do I need to book ahead?
Walk-ups are fine for Park Loop Road. However, if Cadillac Mountain is a must-see, book your $6 vehicle reservation at Recreation.gov as soon as the 90-day window opens—spots fill quickly, especially mid-June through August.
Is this crowded in summer?
Yes. June-October see heavy traffic; July-August is peak. Parking lots and road shoulders fill with cars. Arrive before 9 a.m. or use the free Island Explorer shuttle (summer only) to avoid the rush. May and September-October are sweet spots.
Is it safe to drive with kids and pets?
Yes, for driving. Keep kids entertained and supervised at overlook stops. Pets must stay on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Stay alert for pedestrians and cyclists sharing the roadsides, especially at parking areas and scenic overlooks.
