Acadia National Park, located on Maine’s rocky Atlantic coast, is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Famous for its rugged shoreline, scenic drives, and Cadillac Mountain sunrise views, Acadia draws millions of visitors each year. If you’re planning a trip, you might be wondering: Is Acadia National Park open 24 hours?
Park Hours: Open Year-Round, 24 Hours a Day
Yes — Acadia National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. Visitors are free to enter the park at any time, whether it’s for an early morning hike, catching the first rays of sunlight on Cadillac Mountain, or stargazing under Maine’s clear night skies.
However, while the park itself never closes, certain roads, facilities, and visitor centers have seasonal or daily operating hours.
Seasonal Road Closures
Many of Acadia’s most popular areas are accessed via Park Loop Road, which is typically open from mid-April through late November (weather permitting). In the winter, snow and ice can make sections of the road inaccessible. Other roads, like Cadillac Summit Road, also close seasonally. Always check the National Park Service (NPS) website before visiting for current conditions.
Visitor Centers and Facilities
The park’s visitor centers are not open 24 hours:
- Hulls Cove Visitor Center (Bar Harbor) – generally open from spring through fall, with daily hours ranging from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 or 5:00 p.m.
- Thompson Island Information Center – typically open seasonally with shorter hours.
- Restrooms, campgrounds, and other facilities also operate on specific schedules.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Even though Acadia is always open, the time of day you visit can make a big difference:
- Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain: From late fall to early spring, this is the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise. A vehicle reservation is required during peak season.
- Daytime: Ideal for hiking trails like Jordan Pond Path or Beehive Trail, biking the carriage roads, and enjoying scenic drives.
- Sunset: The cliffs along Ocean Drive and Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse offer incredible evening views.
- Nighttime: With minimal light pollution, Acadia is a great spot for stargazing and night photography.
Tips for Visitors
- Check seasonal road and facility schedules before your trip.
- Arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid heavy crowds during peak season.
- Pack for the weather — Maine’s conditions can change quickly, especially along the coast.
- Bring a headlamp or flashlight if you plan to explore before sunrise or after dark.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acadia National Park Hours
1. Is Acadia National Park open at night?
Yes. The park is open 24 hours a day, so you can explore at night. Many visitors enjoy stargazing since Acadia is known for its dark skies and clear views of the Milky Way.
2. Do I need a reservation to enter Acadia National Park?
Generally, no reservation is required to enter the park. However, from late May through October, you must have a vehicle reservation if you want to drive up Cadillac Summit Road to see the sunrise or sunset.
3. Are the roads in Acadia always open?
Not all roads are open year-round. Park Loop Road and Cadillac Summit Road typically close in late fall and reopen in mid-April, depending on weather conditions.
4. What time does the Acadia Visitor Center open?
The Hulls Cove Visitor Center usually opens between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and closes around 4:30–5:00 p.m., depending on the season. Hours change during the year, so it’s best to check the National Park Service website before visiting.
5. Can I camp overnight in Acadia?
Yes, but only in designated campgrounds. Acadia has several campgrounds (like Blackwoods, Seawall, and Schoodic Woods), and reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months.
6. Is it safe to visit Acadia at night?
Yes, it’s safe if you’re prepared. Carry a flashlight or headlamp, stay on marked trails, and be mindful of wildlife. Nighttime is popular for photography and stargazing events hosted by the park.
7. When is the best time of year to visit Acadia?
Most people visit in spring, summer, and fall when all park roads and facilities are open. Winter offers solitude and opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing but comes with limited road access.
8. Is Acadia National Park open in the winter?
Yes — Acadia National Park is open in the winter and, like the rest of the year, it remains open 24 hours a day, year-round. However, your experience in the park will be quite different from a summer visit.
✨ In summary: Acadia National Park is indeed open 24 hours a day, year-round, but access to roads, visitor centers, and certain services varies by season. For the best experience, plan your visit around sunrise, sunset, or stargazing opportunities, and always check for seasonal closures before you go.