Acadia National Park, located on the coast of Maine and stretching across mountains, hills, lakes, and several islands, is one of the oldest and most beloved national parks in the United States. With its rocky shores and dramatic views of the Atlantic, tranquil lakes, meadows, and mountains, and a long, rich history behind it, the park is well worth a visit any time of year, but autumn is the time when it truly shines. The rich forests of birch, maple, and aspen over slow-growing evergreens turn all shades of red and gold, all against the breathtaking backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Cliffs rise to 200 ft above the ocean along the east shore.
Color is most reliable in the first–third weeks of October when temperatures range from 46 to 57°F during the day / 36 to 45°F at night. Keep in mind that the weather can change quickly — wind, rain, fog, especially near the coast or on elevations. Therefore, it is best to pack a warm jacket when visiting the park. The perfect time to start the trip is at sunrise. In mid-October, sunrise is around 6:45–7:00 am. It is best to arrive 45–60 minutes early to secure parking.
Prime spots for a foliage tour at Acadia National Park include Cadillac Mountain Summit, Jesup Path, the Bubbles (the Bubble Rock Trails), Park Loop Road & Carriage Roads, and Jordan Pond and Jordan Pond Path. A short foliage tour is the perfect way to enjoy Acadia in all its glory at its most atmospheric, with crisp mornings, quieter trails, and unforgettable light.
48-Hour Acadia National Park Adventure
Table of Contents
Day 1
Sand Beach Sunrise
Begin your trip at Sand Beach, where the morning light reflects on golden sand framed by rugged cliffs. A quiet, less crowded alternative to Cadillac Mountain for sunrise.
Great Head Trail
Take a moderate hike on this coastal trail starting from Sand Beach. The path winds past granite cliffs and offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Thunder Hole to Monument Cove
Walk the shoreline to witness crashing waves at Thunder Hole, then continue to Monument Cove, a dramatic viewpoint with towering rock formations.
Sieur de Monts Nature Center
Explore Acadia’s natural history at the Sieur de Monts area. Visit the Wild Gardens of Acadia and enjoy easy boardwalk paths through diverse ecosystems.
Bar Harbor Evening Stroll
End your day in Bar Harbor. Browse the shops, sample local seafood, or relax on the town pier as the sun sets over Frenchman Bay.
Day 2
Bubble Rock Hike
Start with the iconic Bubble Rock on South Bubble Mountain. The short but steep trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of Jordan Pond and the glacial boulder perched at the summit.
Echo Lake Beach
Head to the west side of the island for a swim or relaxing walk along Echo Lake. Its calm waters are surrounded by mountains and forests, making it perfect for a midday break.
Schoodic Peninsula
Spend the afternoon exploring the quieter Schoodic Peninsula. Its rocky shoreline and crashing surf offer some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the park.
Asticou Azalea Garden
Step into this serene Japanese-inspired garden near Northeast Harbor. Beautiful in every season, it provides a peaceful atmosphere of ponds, azaleas, and landscaped paths.
Sunset at Otter Point
Finish your trip at Otter Point. The cliffs here glow in golden light at sunset, with vast views of the ocean and distant islands.
Tips & Tricks
Timing
Peak foliage in Acadia usually occurs in mid-October, though it varies year-to-year with the weather. Better check Maine’s official foliage reports before your trip.
Beating the Crowds
Acadia is one of the busiest national parks in the fall. Arrive early at trailheads and parking areas, or focus on weekdays. The Quiet Side – places like Seawall and Southwest Harbor – offers a slower pace even at peak color.
Gear and Clothing
Autumn weather is fickle, with equal chances of getting sunburned or soaked in an unexpected rain, so come prepared. Winds on the coast make temperatures feel cooler than inland. Dress in layers, carry a rain jacket. Sturdy walking shoes are a must.
Safety
• Cell service is spotty, so don’t rely on your phone and carry a paper map. Maps are available for purchase in the Hulls Cove Visitors Center.
• Poison ivy grows throughout the park, so learn to recognize it and stay away. If you do come in contact with poison ivy, use soap and water within 30 minutes to gently wash off the resin from your skin.
• Ticks are still active in early fall, so check yourself carefully after walks and use insect repellent.
• Always pack plenty of water.
Photography Tips
Chase the magic golden hours in the morning and in the evening, when the sun hangs low above the horizon for the soft, glowy light and warm tones. Catch the stunning reflections on Jordan Pond, Long Pond, and Eagle Lake. After a rain, the colors of the foliage appear more saturated and will really pop in the pictures, so cloudy days are just as good for photography as sunny ones.
Conservation Rules
Follow the park’s Leave No Trace rule: stay on trails, pack trash, and respect wildlife. Pets are welcome but must be on a 6-foot leash. Camping is limited to designated campgrounds. Drive safely, and remember that being under the influence of alcohol while in the park is illegal. You need a reservation to drive Cadillac Summit Road from mid-May to mid-October.
Where to Stay
Staying in a woodland cabin makes early starts for sunrise straightforward and gives you a simple base for quiet evenings after long trail days. In mid-October, daytime temperatures run lower, and coastal wind can feel colder, so a private hot tub is practical for warming up and easing tired legs. Our recommendation for a cabin with a hot tub in Maine is Dreamwood Cottages in Bar Harbor – just a 4-minute drive from Acadia National Park, and some of its units have a private hot tub.
Bottomline
Autumn in Acadia is fleeting. Within weeks, the canopy shifts from red and gold brilliance to bare branches. But in those few crisp days, the park is at its most memorable: mountain sunrises, coastal thunder, quiet ponds, and winding carriage roads under a kaleidoscope of color. A well-planned 48 hours can capture the essence of fall in Acadia – a season as short as it is spectacular.
