Acadia NP Panoramic Road Itinerary
Acadia NP Panoramic Road is a 176 km road trip that starts and ends in Ellsworth, United States. It is best experienced between April and October, when the weather is most mild and the views are most spectacular. This route takes you through the towns of Trenton, Bar Harbor, Otter Point, Seal Harbor, and Cadillac Mountain. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to take in the stunning views of the Acadia National Park and the Atlantic Coast. You'll also have the chance to explore the quaint shops, restaurants and attractions of all the towns.
The roads are mostly in good condition, but be aware that there are some curvy and narrow roads along the route, and that seasonal closures may occur due to weather conditions. This road trip is perfect for all drivers, and can be managed on a moderate budget. It provides a very high level of experience and memories, and is sure to be a highlight of your trip!
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number of days
176 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Ellsworth
Distance 176 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: modest
45.8 kWh
Airports
BGR
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Ellsworth is a great starting point for your road trip to Acadia National Park Panoramic Road. Located in the U.S. state of Maine, Ellsworth is the commercial, cultural and social center of Hancock County. The city is home to the Ellsworth Public Library, the Grand Theater and the Hancock County Courthouse. You can also find various specialty stores, antique shops, art galleries and restaurants in the downtown area.
If you are planning to rent a car to start your road trip, the closest international airport is Bangor International Airport (BGR) which is about 50 miles away from Ellsworth. There are car rental services available at the airport, allowing you to easily pick up your car and begin your journey.
Once you are in Ellsworth, be sure to check out the Waterfront Park, a great spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, kayaking and more. The park also offers spectacular views of Union River and is a great place to take in some of Maine's beautiful nature. For a bit of a cultural experience, visit the Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge, where you can learn about the history and culture of the area.
Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure or a cultural experience, Ellsworth is the perfect place to start your Acadia National Park Panoramic Road trip.
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Ellsworth
- Trenton
Distance 15 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: fast
4.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Ellsworth-Trenton road trip stage! This is one of the stops in a larger tour and you are in for an amazing experience. The total distance between the two cities is 9 miles and it will take you less than an hour to drive.
First, let’s start in Ellsworth. This city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and friendly people. Make sure to visit the historic Ellsworth Public Library, the Ellsworth Historical Society Museum, and the Ellsworth City Park.
Next up is Trenton. This charming city has a lot to offer, such as the Trenton-Maine Museum, the Mill Pond Park, and the Trenton Public Library. It is also home to the famous Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound, where you can enjoy some of the freshest seafood Maine has to offer.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Have a great road trip!
Trenton - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - CMS-media-panel
Trenton - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - CMS-media-panel
Trenton - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - CMS-media-panel
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2
Trenton
- Bar Harbor
Distance 18 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: fast
5.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey will take you from Trenton, United States to Bar Harbor in 11 miles and less than 1 hour of driving.
In Trenton, make sure to visit the Old Barracks Museum, where you can learn about the history of the American Revolution. You can also explore the New Jersey State House, and the Trenton Battle Monument, the oldest in New Jersey.
When you reach Bar Harbor, you can explore the Acadia National Park, where you can take a boat tour around the islands, hike on the trails, or take a scenic drive. You can also visit the Bar Harbor Whale Museum, the Abbe Museum, and the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Bar Harbor - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - CMS-media-panel
Bar Harbor - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - CMS-media-panel
Bar Harbor - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - en.wikipedia.org
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3
Bar Harbor
- Otter Point
Distance 11 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: slow
2.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 7mi journey from Bar Harbor to Otter Point and explore the stunning beauty of Maine along the way! The drive will take you less than an hour and you will be mesmerized by the winding roads and the scenic views. Make sure to keep your eyes open for some of the most remarkable sights of the area, such as the rocky shoreline, the rugged cliffs and the vibrant forests. There are plenty of opportunities to take some amazing pictures and to enjoy a peaceful stroll in nature. Don't forget to take a break and admire the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. And if you want to make the most of your journey, you can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So don't wait any longer and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Otter Point - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Otter Point
- Seal Harbor
Distance 12 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: slow
2.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Otter Point to Seal Harbor? This route is only 7 miles long and can be completed in less than an hour. As you drive along the winding roads, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the surrounding area. Be sure to keep an eye out for some of the local wildlife that might be out and about.
Once you’ve arrived in Seal Harbor, you’ll be able to explore the area and discover some of its hidden gems. From the quaint harbor to the stunning views of the nearby mountains, you’ll never run out of things to do. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore, so you’ll never go hungry or bored.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. With so much to explore, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on this road trip.
Seal Harbor - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - GoodFreePhotos
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5
Seal Harbor
- Cadillac Mountain
Distance 29 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: slow
6.7 kWh
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Are you ready for a road trip from Seal Harbor to Cadillac Mountain? This 18-mile drive will take you less than an hour, so you can enjoy the scenery along the way. Be sure to pay attention to the winding roads and narrow sections, as some parts of the route may be closed seasonally. You can also take in the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and Acadia National Park.
Once you arrive at Cadillac Mountain, you will be able to explore the highest peak on the East Coast and get a spectacular view of the surrounding area. There are numerous trails and picnic areas to explore, as well as a visitor's center that provides information about the area and its history.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road!
Cadillac Mountain - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Cadillac Mountain
- Tremont
Distance 40 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
10.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Cadillac Mountain, US and ending in Tremont. The 25 mi drive will take you less than an hour and, as you drive, you will be able to admire the scenic road. During your journey, you may find some sections of the route closed seasonally, as well as winding and narrow roads. Take a break at Cadillac Mountain and enjoy the panoramic views, or at Schoodic Mountain and admire the beauty of the ocean. In Tremont, take a walk around the harbor and visit the local galleries. Don't forget to check the "Itinerary" for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Tremont - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wallpaperflare
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Tremont
- Ellsworth
Distance 51 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
13.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embark on a road trip from Tremont to Ellsworth! This 32mi journey will take you less than an hour and will be the perfect opportunity to explore the best of both places.
In Tremont, visit the historic Tremont Opera House, built in 1891 and now a museum dedicated to the town's history. Enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and rivers from the nearby Tremont Overlook.
When you reach Ellsworth, take a stroll around the charming downtown area. Visit the Ellsworth Public Library, the oldest library in Hancock County, and the Ellsworth Historical Museum, which houses artifacts from the town's past.
Don't forget to explore the Ellsworth Waterfront Park, located along the Union River. Here, you can enjoy the scenic views while fishing or kayaking.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Ellsworth
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Ellsworth is a vibrant city located in the US State of Maine. It marks the end of the Acadia National Park Panoramic Road, a stunning route that takes you through some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country.
The town of Ellsworth itself has plenty of attractions to keep you busy. The Grand Theatre regularly puts on plays and musicals and the Maine Lighthouse Museum is a must-see, exploring the history of the area's lighthouses and their keepers. For art lovers, the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts offers classes and workshops in everything from glassblowing to blacksmithing.
To experience the local wildlife, the nearby Downeast Salmon Federation offers guided tours of the Union River and its tributaries. Alternatively, the Union River Boat Company provides boat rides and fishing charters on the river.
If you're looking for a bite to eat, Ellsworth has a great selection of restaurants. The local favorite, the Downeast Lobster Pound, serves up quality seafood dishes in a casual atmosphere.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Bangor International Airport (BGR). From there, it's a short drive to Ellsworth and the start of the Acadia National Park Panoramic Road.
So why not make Ellsworth the last stop on your next road trip? With so much to do and see, you won't be disappointed!
Acadia NP Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Ellsworth
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End:
Ellsworth
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Distance:
176 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Bangor International Airport (BGR)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
We believe that the presented journey idea gave you numerous inspirations for your future holidays.
It is a ready-made opportunity that can be effortlessly developed into a longer journey – you can do virtually anything you’d like.
If travelling by car is your plan when moving around Maine, there are a number of vital traffic regulations to follow and a list of things to keep in mind to ensure pleasant experiences.
The following road rules will surely become useful for all holidaymakers considering car rental or renting a camper.
When driving around Maine, there are a number of road regulations to be remembered.
To be on the safe side, try to avoid alcohol at all costs.
Tourists ought to remember that the legal alcohol limit is rather low and equals only 0.5‰.
Travelling in a car around the city streets is allowed at the maximum speed of 40km/h.
Never exceed the maximum speed of 72km/h when travelling around rural areas.
Keep in mind that the permissible speed is 129km/h on motorways in Maine.
Having a fire extinguisher and first aid kit in your car and driving with your headlights on at daytime increase the safety of your passengers.
The majority of travellers are also interested in the travel expenses of the whole road trip.
Well, depending on the budget option that interests you, the money that you have to spend on your holiday expenses may vary.
Let’s have a look at the budget options.
We estimate that the cheapest option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 176km across Maine can equal as much as 25 EUR.
Economy accommodation options may cost holidayers around 77 EUR.
If the this option is your target, you should be prepared to spend more or less 72 EUR on food and restaurants.
Travellers will have to pay about 45 EUR if they aim for the cheapest car rental option as well.
Thus, going for vehicle rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from around 174 EUR to roughly 219 EUR.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 25 EUR to cover the planned stages of the road trip.
Cost amounting to 121 EUR can be expected by all holidaymakers who are considering standard overnight stays.
When choosing this option, take into consideration that the food and restaurants within this range will cost approximately 108 EUR.
Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard rental vehicle should expect a cost of approximately 54 EUR.
Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay around 321 EUR for the whole itinerary, whereas those who are not interested in car rental will spend about 267 EUR.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will meet the expectations of the most demanding holidayers.
When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total around 470 EUR for holidayers who are considering vehicle rental and 267 EUR for those who will not be renting.
Travellers who would like to cover the trip in a premium rental car should expect a cost of around 90 EUR.
When it comes to the premium configuration of the tour, the fuel cost will be up to roughly 38 EUR.
Holidayers who are interested in top services in all aspects of their itinerary should expect to pay roughly 144 EUR for food and restaurants and approximately 198 EUR for accommodation options.
Our trip is also a thrilling opportunity for all camper fans.
Tourists have to pay roughly 225 EUR for camper hire service.
You have to spend the maximum of 50 EUR on the gasoline needed to cover the itinerary in a camper.
Holidayers who are considering camper hire should expect to pay roughly 55 EUR for overnight stays and more or less 72 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section presents all the above details in a straightforward manner.
If Acadia NP Panoramic Road has sparked your creativity, our website is full of intriguing adventures.
Hopefully, the wide spectrum of road trips will definitely meet the expectations of the most demanding tourists.