Drive or hike to the top of Mount Desert Island’s tallest mountain at daybreak and you will be the first person to view sunrise in the United States.
Discover the regal magic of Cadillac Mountain, located with Acadia National Park. Rising 1,530 feet (466.3 meters) high, it is not only the tallest mountain in Maine, but also the highest peak on America’s North Atlantic seaboard. It is a favorite destination on Mount Desert Island and an instantly recognizable symbol of Acadia. It is also known as the first place that sunlight hits in the United States.
To reach Cadillac Mountain’s summit, drive along the Park Loop Road. The scenic route winds for about 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) until it reaches the peak. Pull off at several spots along the way to fully appreciate the panoramic views to be found at every turn. Once you’re there, park your car and hike a short loop around the summit.
For a more invigorating journey to the top, hike along the trail that begins at the Blackwoods Campground. Continue along the South Ridge Trail, which takes you through spruce forests and granite outcroppings. Stop at Featherbed, a small glacial pond, for a scenic break. Although the 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) round-trip trail is difficult, it can be completed in a day.
At the summit, enjoy stunning vistas as far as the eye can see. To the south, pick out the Cranberry Islands. Eagle Lake and Western Bay sit off the northwestern side. To the northeast, see the picturesque town of Bar Harbor below, while the Porcupine Islands, Bar Island and Schoodic Peninsula unfold on the horizon.
Get your bearings in the Cadillac Summit Center. Browse through the gift shop, purchase a snack or speak to a ranger at the information center.
To enter Acadia National Park, there is a per-vehicle fee. The price depends on the season. Because the area experiences heavy snowfall during winter, the road to the summit is closed between December and April. Note that the parking lots on the summit tend to fill up quickly, particular around sunset hours, so plan to arrive a little early to secure a parking space.
