Stay Bar Harbor Blog

There seems to be a common misconception that Acadia National Park is “closed” or “mostly closed” in the winter. As an individual who has lived on Mount Desert Island for many years this comes as a surprise to me.

I personally love this time of the year on the island because there are fewer people in Acadia meaning you get a much less crowded experience! In addition to Acadia National Park, the island is also home to many coastal towns; the park winds in and out of these towns meaning that it is never far away and is always accessible.

The Shore Path: Roughly a mile in length spanning from the municipal pier to Wayman Lane, the Shore Path is one of Bar Harbor’s longest standing traditions. Open to the public thanks to the generosity of several private land owners, the Shore Path strolls along past spectacular summer cottages and splendid parks. Observe the unique glacial erratic “Balance Rock,” skip some stones, take an evening stroll with an ice cream cone, or perhaps enjoy a breathtaking sunset (or all of the above)!

Ask me each day for a week to identify my favorite place on Mount Desert Island and you’re likely to get seven different answers.

The Inn on Mount Desert is proud to stock a library of a great many books, which predominantly but not exclusively are in some way inspired by the local area. We feel that some light—or not so light, if that’s your preference—reading is a fantastic way to enhance the degree of relaxation during your time in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine (even if it so happens you aren’t here on vacation!). And, of course, we are more than happy to help you find a book that suits your fancy!