The Secret side of Acadia National Park

Of the 3 million visitors to Acadia National Park annually, very few see one of the most spectacular parts of the park. Located off Mount Desert Island, The Schoodic Scenic Byway attracts only 10% of the visitors that go to the popular sites of Jordan Pond, Thunder Hole, and Cadillac Mountain of Acadia. Just an hour from Bar Harbor (or 2 ½ miles as the seagull flies across Frenchman’s Bay) is this gorgeous Schoodic Peninsula that juts out into the Gulf of Maine. In a car or on bike, tour Schoodic Scenic Byway to be rewarded with stunning views to the west of Mount Desert Island and Cadillac Mountain, and of the lighthouses of Mark Island, Baker Island Light and Egg Rock Light.

In 1929, the Schoodic Peninsula became part of Acadia National Park with over 27 acres of unique pink granite shores, most of which can be accessed and enjoyed from the newly paved route that traces the shores. These giant pink granite boulders that line the coast of Schoodic Peninsula are an inspiration to artists, but also fun for kids to climb and walk on, just watch out for wave action as the ocean surf crashes against the cliffs and rocky coastline.

As you drive out Schoodic Peninsula you pass the seaside towns of Winter Harbor or Prospect Harbor on your way to the National Park Road loop, which becomes one-way traffic at the Schoodic Head, the highest point on the peninsula at 440-feet, which now serves as the Schoodic Education and Research Center. On your Schoodic drive, you will pass one scenic picnic spot after another, smooth granite rock shores are perfect for picture taking, picnicking or walking down to the coast to see lobster boats ply the calm protected waters.

Winter Harbor Light, or also called Mark Island Light, visibly marks the entrance to Winter Harbor. This beautiful lighthouse is seen from sea separating Schoodic Peninsula from Frenchman’s Bay and Mount Desert Island.

Schoodic Point - Acadia National Park, Winter Harbor, Downeast Maine.

FEATURED DOWNEAST MAINE PROPERTIES

Acadia's Oceanside Meadows Inn - Prospect Harbor Enjoy magnificent ocean views and waves crashing on our private sandy beach from our historic Sea Captain's home on 200 acres. We welcome you to discover the serenity of Acadia's Schoodic Peninsula and the hospitality of our bed and gourmet breakfast inn located in the heart of beautiful Downeast Maine. Situated five minutes from the spectacular Acadia National Park at Schoodic we're the perfect place for your Maine vacation or special romantic getaway. Discover tidal pools, four local lighthouses, kayaking, canoeing, whale watching, perennial gardens and wildlife. Experience concerts, science talks and art gallery in our 1820's timber frame hall. Corea Road, Prospect Harbor, Maine 207-963-5557

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