Spring in Acadia, Before the Summer Rush
Waterfalls running with snowmelt, birds passing through, and the Park Loop Road by bike before it opens to cars on April 15.
What’s Open in Spring
Spring in Acadia changes week to week. Here’s what to expect, and what to check before you go.
From the National Park Service. Dates can shift with the weather, so check current conditions.
- Park Loop RoadOpen to cars from April 15
- Before April 15Walk or bike closed sections
- Carriage RoadsClosed in mud season until dry
- Hiking TrailsOpen, some cliff trails closed
Spring Days
Bike the Park Loop Road
Spring is one of the best times to bike the park. Before April 15, closed sections of the road are open to walkers and cyclists; watch for gates, lingering ice and park vehicles. The Jordan Pond Road entrance is a minute from the house.
Waterfalls
Snowmelt and spring rain fill the park’s cascades. Otter Creek Cascade and Canon Brook Cascade are both reached by trail.
Birds on the Move
Spring migration brings warblers and other songbirds through the park’s woods and ponds.
Seal Harbor Beach
A 15-minute walk from the house for a spring stroll along the water.
Trail Closures
Some cliff trails, including Jordan Cliffs and the Precipice, close in spring for peregrine falcon nesting. Hikers should carry traction for icy spots early in the season.
When the Carriage Roads Reopen
The Park Service reopens the carriage roads once the gravel dries out and firms up. The nearest trailhead is 0.2 miles from the house.
A House for Changeable Weather
Spring can bring sun, rain and snow in the same week. The house has room for all of it.
- Game room with arcade machines, table tennis and a PlayStation 5
- Home gym and two living rooms
- Heat throughout, plus mini-split units
- Propane fire table on the deck, out all year
- Outdoor furniture set out from late April
- Free washer and dryer for muddy gear
Spring Events
Late spring brings one of the country’s best-loved birding festivals, and evening walks close to the house.
Dates change from year to year, so check with the organizers before you plan around an event.
Late May
Acadia Birding Festival
Four days of guided bird walks, boat trips, workshops and evening talks across Mount Desert Island, timed for the spring migration.
Event website: acadiabirdingfestival.comLate spring into summer
Field Walks at the Preserve
The Land & Garden Preserve in Seal Harbor leads evening field walks on topics like fireflies and the night sky, a short walk from the house.
Event website: gardenpreserve.org“Beautiful house and great location. Nice and quite neighborhood and easy drive to the park and restaurants. We recommend Abels. Would go back.”
Questions
Are the carriage roads open in spring?
They close during the spring thaw, known as mud season, usually starting in March, and reopen when the gravel dries out and firms up. Check the National Park Service website for the current status.
When does the Park Loop Road open to cars?
April 15, weather permitting. Before then, closed sections are open to walkers and cyclists.
Is the outdoor furniture out in spring?
The propane fire table stays out all year. The rest of the outdoor furniture is set out from late April.
Which trails close in spring?
Some cliff trails, including Jordan Cliffs and the Precipice, close for peregrine falcon nesting. The National Park Service lists current closures.
Plan Your Stay
See live availability and the full price, including fees and taxes, and book online.
Questions? Call or text Jen at 207-801-8661.
More Ways to Stay
SummerBeach days, harbor paddles, popovers at Jordan Pond House and fireworks over Frenchman Bay.
FallFall color on the carriage roads and long evenings at the fire table.
WinterPlowed driveway, a warm house, and carriage roads for skiing and snowshoeing when there’s snow.
Multigenerational FamiliesRoom for three generations, with a main-floor suite and two bunk rooms.
HolidaysThanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s with a kitchen built for big meals.- Retreats for Teams and FriendsSix bedrooms, fast wifi, a gym and a game room for the evenings.