MDI Outdoor Thrills: Top 5 Can’t-Miss Activities
Mount Desert Island, sometimes called MDI by locals, so too it’s where Acadia National Park is located, is just a dream for anyone who is interested in spending time outside; yet it’s the sort of spot that remains stuck in your thoughts long after you leave; just think of craggy granite peaks kissing the sky and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean crashing against the coast. With outdoor options aplenty, knowing where to begin, or rather getting a solid plan together, can seem like quite the task. Basically, I wanted to put together what I consider to be a top five list for those hoping to discover some of MDI’s absolute best outside activities – everything from hiking iconic trails to paddling serene waters, actually. So, let’s get to it, because there is plenty to cover!
1. Hiking the Precipice Trail
The Precipice Trail, now, as a matter of fact, it’s arguably Acadia’s most heart-pounding hike, tends to be absolutely perfect for that very adventurous spirit. Clearly, what makes it a bit unique, I mean completely sets it apart, is its, I want to say, somewhat nerve-racking climb assisted by iron rungs, is that it hugs the cliffs of Champlain Mountain. Just imagine it, or rather just consider it: you are pulling yourself up a rock face with the waves of the Atlantic literally crashing down below. By the way, it’s extremely vital you feel confident with heights if you decide to go for it. The views at the top, yet really those you take in while going up, just tend to be spectacular – a complete payoff for your daring effort. The trailhead happens to be pretty easy to reach from Bar Harbor, alright it’s probably a smart idea to check ahead to make sure it is open, basically it can sometimes close because of peregrine falcon nesting season. Anyway, you can find access and important details here: Check trail conditions for up-to-date information.
2. Biking the Carriage Roads
The Carriage Roads of Acadia National Park, still, these wind like ribbons through some stunning woods and beside quiet ponds, tends to be a biking adventure that has a lot of allure for, like your everyday bikers through experts; what is very, very neat with these roads is that they were financed by John D. Rockefeller Jr., really he knew he was creating a masterpiece when he, sort of, planned these traffic-free gravel paths for hikers, horseback riders, or your typical biker. So, the lack of cars, alright a bit less jostling for space, brings about a pretty stress-free experience, which makes just exploring the area’s beauty a little bit simpler. Well, there’s close to 50 miles, maybe a touch more, so basically that offers a good bunch of routes and a lot to discover. Explore these historic paths on two wheels. Many opt to kick off from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center, still, I mean that’s generally where there’s lots of parking and access to bike rentals if you require one.
3. Kayaking on Eagle Lake
Kayaking on Eagle Lake, basically one of the biggest lakes in Acadia, now as a matter of fact can be just the tranquil escape any busy mind longs for. Very often what happens, you find glassy water which mirrors the surrounding birch and pine trees. In that case it really makes you pause and recognize this world. More or less you might be interested to realize that because it is a bit further away, that is, so it’s not the Atlantic’s shoreline, it can sometimes give paddlers a bit of needed peace and quiet from the tourist streams, really if quiet contemplation happens to be high up on your MDI to do list. Actually, there exist a bunch of launch points scattered across the perimeter of the lake, yet many individuals just opt to bring their personal kayaks, in some respects this saves a little money when planning outdoor experiences for family members. As a matter of fact you can rent a kayak, you see? More information and permits may be needed: Plan your trip to Eagle Lake.
4. Exploring Sand Beach
Sand Beach is that very distinctive location nestled amid Acadia’s rugged granite mountains, basically offering you something more like an oceanic interlude. Even though it might be brief—the beach stands at a cool 290 yards—still its composition of crushed shells gives it its unique color that a bit warms the toes on chilly mornings, now really isn’t that neat. More or less what makes Sand Beach worth it just to talk about is because you might not think of a beach outing on this type of coast. However, there is this cozy beach there between the mountainous terrain where you can soak up some sunlight or actually brave the invigorating water, as I was saying; anyway, the waters will often be quite cool and refreshing. You have got to expect it to be chilly, and as a matter of fact maybe bring something warmer than your swim suit in case the weather changes. Alright, that means parking there just during busy season just turns into a bit of challenge, thus it’s more like better getting there first thing in the morning. In that case you will be ready for your special stretch of ocean front in Maine, because definitely those are always amazing! Here’s tips on getting there: Tips for visiting Sand Beach.
5. Summiting Cadillac Mountain
Summiting Cadillac Mountain, by the way MDI’s biggest peak, gives, definitely offers, simply a bird’s-eye viewpoint regarding everything. Anyway, whether it ends up being through an enjoyable drive or via one of several hiking routes, the summit grants probably views which really stretch miles; well the best parts here entail sunrise and sunset times, yet keep in mind crowds assemble at these periods. As a matter of fact what I feel is very neat about reaching the top is to know Cadillac Mountain just ranks as one of the very first spots in the USA just to greet the sunrise between parts of the year, by the way offering an absolutely unique draw for early birds, so too it’s a sight you won’t soon forget. By the way remember you need to keep a watch for permits so you are good to see sun come up; Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain information. Don’t ignore a chance just to see more.