Acadia National Park Adventure

It doesn’t take long for Maine’s coast to work its magic. One moment you’re standing on a granite summit above a harbor full of schooners, and the next you’re paddling through quiet island passages, walking historic carriage roads, or watching waves crash below a lighthouse in Acadia National Park Maine.

Start - End: Bangor - Bangor

Total trip: 6 days

Average group size: 12 people

Level: 2

from NZD 8,499/pp including taxes and fees

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Explore Acadia’s rugged coast on an unforgettable adventure

Our Acadia National Park Adventure brings together the best of coastal Maine in one easy, all-inclusive journey. You’ll explore the storybook town of Camden, kayak the island-dotted waters near Rockland, and settle into Bar Harbor as you discover the rugged beauty, iconic Acadia National Park attractions, and unforgettable Acadia hiking that make this corner of the coast so special. Along the way, you’ll hike to sweeping viewpoints, enjoy fresh local flavors, and experience the kind of thoughtful pacing that lets you stay active without ever feeling rushed.

This trip is designed for travelers who want more than just a park visit. You’ll get the energy of the coast, the ease of expert guides handling the details, and the comfort of knowing every day has been carefully planned to show you something memorable. From Cadillac Mountain’s wide-open views to the quieter beauty of Jordan Pond and Witch Hole Pond, this is Maine hiking at its most invigorating and restorative, with some of the best trails in Acadia National Park woven into the week.

If you’re looking for a New England adventure with fresh air, saltwater, scenic trails, and plenty of character, this one delivers. It’s an easy, rewarding way to hike Acadia National Park with expert guides leading the way.

Trip Highlights

Hiking

Camden Hills State Park

Hike scenic trails in Camden Hills State Park and enjoy standout Acadia hiking on some of the best hikes in Acadia National Park.

Hiking

Jordan Pond, Otter Point

Walk the shoreline at Jordan Pond, Otter Point, and along historic trails in Acadia National Park.

Kayaking

Muscle Ridge Archipelago

Paddle through the Muscle Ridge archipelago on a guided coastal kayaking adventure.

Plus...

Bass Harbor Head Light

Visit iconic coastal landmarks including Bass Harbor Head Light.

Plus...

Cadillac Mountain

Enjoy classic Maine views from the summit of Cadillac Mountain.

Plus...

Sail Camden Harbor

Sail aboard a traditional windjammer in Camden Harbor.

Plus...

Maine Culinary Experiences

Savor Maine flavors, including lunch at Jordan Pond House and a classic lobster roll stop.

Plus...

Explore Charming Coastal Towns

Unwind in charming coastal towns with overnights in Camden and Bar Harbor.

Day by day trip

Each day reveals a different side of coastal Maine, from rocky headlands and quiet carriage roads to island-dotted bays and classic New England harbor towns. Thoughtfully paced days blend active exploration, fresh local flavor, and time to unwind, so you can settle into the rhythm of the coast and enjoy every moment.

Day 1

Arrive in Bangor, hike Camden Hills, and sail into the evening

Your trip begins with a morning pickup in Bangor before a scenic drive to Camden, one of Maine’s prettiest harbor towns. After getting your first look at the coast, you’ll stretch your legs on a hike up Mount Battie, where wide views over Penobscot Bay set the tone for the week ahead.

After lunch, continue exploring Camden Hills State Park on a rewarding afternoon hike through fragrant forest and past granite outcrops. Later, there’s time to relax at the hotel before boarding a windjammer for a sunset sail, when the harbor glows gold and the breeze off the water feels like pure Maine. This evening, enjoy dinner in town and settle in for the night.
Accommodation: Camden Riverhouse, Camden
Meals: Lunch, Dinner 

Hiking: 3-4 miles (5-6 kilometers)

Day 2

Kayak the Muscle Ridge archipelago, enjoy Camden

After breakfast, set out for Rockland, where your guide team will get you fitted and ready for a day on the water. Paddling through the Muscle Ridge archipelago, you’ll explore quiet inlets, rugged islands, and the kind of coastal scenery that feels both wild and timeless. A fresh lunch is included during your kayaking excursion.

Back in Camden, the late afternoon is yours to relax, browse the shops, or simply enjoy the harbor. We will meet up for dinner this evening at one of our favorite spots!
Accommodation: Camden Riverhouse, Camden
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kayaking: 2-3 hours

Day 3

Day 3: Travel to Acadia, walk Jordan Pond, and arrive in Bar Harbor

This morning, leave Camden behind and make your way to Acadia National Park. On arrival, you’ll stop at park headquarters for an orientation before sitting down to lunch at the iconic Jordan Pond House, a classic Acadia experience.

In the afternoon, lace up your boots for a gentle loop around Jordan Pond. With clear water, rounded peaks, and beautifully varied shoreline views, it’s one of the park’s most beloved walks for good reason. Afterward, continue to Bar Harbor, where your home for the next three nights offers a comfortable base by the water. Dinner is in town this evening.
Accommodation: Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 3 miles (5 kilometers)

Day 4

Cadillac Mountain, a classic Maine lunch, and Bass Harbor Head Light

Start the day at Hulls Cove Visitor Center hiking the carriage roads of Witch Hole Pond Loop, then drive up Cadillac Mountain, where sweeping views over forest, sea, and scattered islands show off Acadia’s rugged beauty from above. It’s a spectacular vantage point and a wonderful contrast to the close-up trails still to come.

From there, travel to the quieter side of Mount Desert Island for lunch at Thurston’s Lobster Pound in Tremont, a true Maine institution. Later, stop at Bass Harbor Head Light for photos and ocean views before returning to Bar Harbor. The rest of the afternoon is open for downtime before dinner on your own this evening.
Accommodation: Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Hiking: 4 miles (6.4 kilometers)

Day 5

Carriage roads with ocean views, hike up Norumbega Mountain

Today, head toward the ocean for a walk along the dramatic shoreline near Otter Point, where waves crash against pink granite and the sea air keeps you moving.

After lunch with a view, continue to the trailhead for the Norumbega Mountain Loop. It’s a relatively short hike, but the summit rewards you with excellent perspectives over Somes Sound and the surrounding hills. Return to the hotel for time to recharge before a final dinner in Bar Harbor.
Accommodation: Bar Harbor Inn, Bar Harbor
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 5 miles (8 kilometers)

Day 6

Jesup Path and departure to Bangor

On your final morning, enjoy one last taste of Acadia on the Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop. This easy walk-through birch woods, marshy lowlands, and quiet forest is a fitting finale, offering a softer, more reflective side of the park.

Afterwards drive back to Bangor for airport drop-off, leaving with salty air in your lungs, strong legs, and a head full of Maine memories.
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast

Hiking: 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers)

This trip includes:

5 nights’ accommodation
5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
You’re supported from start to finish by our highly experienced guides and leaders
Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
All activities described in the itinerary
Delicious and nutritious snacks to keep you fueled
All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!
Special "Wow" moments you'll never forget
Your queries answered by our knowledgeable Customer Care Team - only a call, chat, or email away
You’re “trip ready” with our Customer Care Team’s calls prior to your trip
“My Account” - your own online space with everything required for your adventure

FAQs

From where you will meet your guides, to how much luggage you should bring, to the types of accommodations where we stay. Read through our FAQs for the lowdown on how to prepare for your adventure in Acadia.

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Home2 Suites by Hilton Bangor at 8:30am or Fairfield Inn Bangor at 8:45am. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at either of these hotels directly or any other hotel in Bangor, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Bangor International Airport at 12:30pm in time for flights below or at a hotel of your choice around Bangor Airport around 1pm.

What flights do you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Bangor at least the day before your trip starts. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Bangor after 2:30pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

What are the accommodations we stay at on this trip?

Comfortable hotels along the coast of Maine and just outside Acadia National Park providing easy access to the national park and our activities during the tour.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

Hikes on this tour are considered easy to moderate, so a good level of fitness is recommended. Most hikes typically take between two to four hours, though some days may involve more or less hiking depending on the itinerary.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full, we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply. Read more here.

Why Travel With Us

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.