Acadia National Park: Maine’s Wild Playground

#onthemove Welcome to Acadia National Park, where Maine’s natural beauty smacks you in the face (in the nicest way possible). Whether you’re chasing sunrises, hiking like a mountain goat, or just here for the Instagram likes, Acadia delivers epic views, fresh air, and a solid chance to trip over a tree root. Start your adventure at Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the East Coast and the unofficial sunrise capital of America. Want to feel special? Drag yourself out of bed at 4 a.m. and be one of the first people in the U.S. to greet the sun. Bonus: the view will totally distract you from how cold and groggy you are. For a proper adrenaline rush, hit the Precipice Trail—essentially nature’s obstacle course, complete with iron rungs, sheer cliffs, and lots of chances to question your life choices. Prefer a less death-defying option? The Jordan Pond Path offers gorgeous views of the Bubbles (yes, that’s what the hills are called) and water so clear it might make you rethink your bottled water obsession. If you’re more into wheels than walking, the Carriage Roads are perfect for cycling or pretending you’re in a period drama (minus the corsets). These scenic, car-free trails meander through Acadia’s forests and around sparkling lakes, delivering all the charm without the traffic. And don’t miss Thunder Hole, where waves crash into a rock inlet with a sound that’s like Mother Nature yelling, “Check me out!” It’s dramatic, salty, and kind of the park’s diva moment. Acadia isn’t just a park—it’s a place where granite peaks, crashing waves, and woodland critters remind you that the great outdoors is way cooler than your couch. Pack snacks, bring your sense of humor, and prepare to be wowed.