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Adventure Collective Journal

Explore Acadia National Park: Full-Day Private Tour & Custom Hikes in Maine

Explore Acadia National Park: Full-Day Private Tour & Custom Hikes in Maine

Discover the rugged beauty of Acadia National Park on a full-day private tour with expert guides who customize your journey. From Thunder Hole’s crashing surf to serene hikes around Jordan Pond, experience Maine’s iconic coast intimately and on your own terms.

Bar Harbor, Maine
6–8 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Start Early for Best Light and Fewer Crowds

Begin your tour mid-morning to enjoy iconic viewpoints with softer light and avoid peak visitor times along popular trails.

Prepare for Variable Terrain

Bring sturdy footwear suitable for both rocky coastal paths and forested hiking trails encountered during the tour.

Pack Layers and Hydration

Maine’s coastal climate shifts rapidly; dress in breathable layers and carry at least 1 liter of water per person.

Respect Tide Schedules for Bar Island Access

Check tide charts beforehand as the sandbar to Bar Island is only walkable during low tide windows.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Bubble Rock viewpoint offers quiet reflections over Jordan Pond away from main crowds
  • The quieter Carriage Roads network provides serene walking paths lined with stone bridges

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Black-capped chickadee

Conservation Note

Visitors are encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles; Good Trip Adventures supports local conservation initiatives to protect park ecosystems.

The Wabanaki people have lived on Mount Desert Island for centuries, their connection to the land woven into Acadia’s cultural fabric.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour morning, Late afternoon, Overcast for even light
Key viewpoints:
  • Thunder Hole overlook
  • Jordan Pond House
  • Cadillac Mountain summit
Subjects to capture:Coastal cliffs and waves, Reflections on Jordan Pond, Native forest flora and wildlife

What to Bring

Hiking boots or sturdy trail shoesEssential

Needed for stability and traction on varied rocky and forest floor surfaces.

Layered clothing systemEssential

Allow adaptation to coastal temperature swings and changing conditions during the day.

Reusable water bottleEssential

Stay hydrated throughout the long day of outdoor activity.

Camera or smartphone

Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife moments on the trail and lookout points.

Common Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, the tour can be adjusted for all fitness levels, including children and seniors who can manage moderate walking.

Do I need a park pass or entry ticket?

Park entry fees are included in the tour price, so no separate pass is required.

What if the weather is bad?

Tours cancel if weather conditions are unsafe, and you’ll receive a full refund if cancelled more than 24 hours in advance.

Can I choose which trails to hike?

Yes, the guide customizes the itinerary based on your interests and ability, including options like the Precipice Trail for more challenge.

Is lunch provided?

A gourmet picnic lunch is provided and can accommodate dietary restrictions with prior notice.

How do transportation and pickup work?

Round-trip private transportation from within a one-hour radius of Mount Desert Island is included; alternative pickup arrangements are possible.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

6–8 hours

Location

Bar Harbor, Maine

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate fitness capable of walking up to 5 miles with some elevation gain (up to 1,200 feet) and handling rocky terrain.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Bar Harbor?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now