Acadia National Park is situated on the coastline of Bar Harbor, Maine and offers various scenic drives, hiking trails, and picturesque views of the mountains and coast. Visitors from all over flock to Acadia to experience top attractions like Jordan Pond, Precipice Trail, Otter Cliffs, Cadillac Mountain, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, and so much more. While you're out exploring the park, one thing is certain: you'll be spending most of your time in the great outdoors, away from the distractions of modern life. Ensure you have the necessary essentials packed to stay well-prepared for your trip!
Lightweight Jacket- You'll be moving around and (in most seasons) won't need anything too heavy, however, will want to cut the breeze from the coastline. This L.L. Bean Sherpa fleece jacket is my latest obsession and recommendation
Rain Jacket - As a rule of thumb, it's always great to have as you never know when you're going to need it!
Comfortable Shorts - An reliable short that will keep you cool and hold up on hikes is a must!
Knit Hat - This Carhartt hat has been my go-to for the past few years. It's durable, light weight, and will keep you warm.
Hiking Socks - Seems like a silly splurge, but your feet will take you far in a National Park. You'll want to invest in some good socks and shoes that will prevent blisters and foot aches.
Hiking Shoes - Even if you drive around the park you will be doing a lot of walking. Be sure to come prepared with a shoe that has good traction and is broken in.
Binoculars - Break out those binoculars, you're going to need them for this trip! If you don't have a pair, you can easily find compact binoculars on Amazon.
Water/Water Bottle - It's essential to stay hydrated during an active day outdoors. There are plenty of hyration stations around the park, but not a lot of places to buy water. Make sure you come prepared with a reusable water bottle or hydration system.
Healthy Snacks - Just like water, food can be hard to find between visitor centers. Make sure you come prepared with some good treats to keep you going.
Camera - Speaks for itself. As one of the most photographed national parks, you will see advanced photography around every corner. Make sure your phone is charged, or you have a secondary camera to capture those unforgettable moments like seeing a Buffalo up close or a bear in the distance.
Sunglasses & Sunscreen - Whether you realize it or not, being outside in the sun will take a toll on you not only while it's sunny, but when it's overcast. Protect your body and be sure to go prepared with the proper sun protection.
Park Maps - People tend to rely on phones, but inside Yellowstone cell phone service can be hard to find. Stop at any visitor center and they can support you finding an appropriate guide map. Or, check out the National Parks Service website where they have numerous resources you can print out in advance.
First Aid Kit - Always come prepared to any outdoor adventure with a first aid kit. You can easily buy them at the grocery store, or make one yourself.
A Table Cloth or Blanket - Finding a spot to eat was tricky. Not only are there not a lot of restaurants, but the day we went, most were closed. There are however many public picnic tables that you can utilize for lunch. Bring a tablecloth or a blanket for an extra level of comfort when wanting to sit down for a quick bite to eat. Turkish Towels work great for this dual purpose.
Daypacks - A daypack is essential for carrying all your belongings on a quick hike. There's no need for a huge pack, a 18-20L bag will be plenty. You can purchase one on REI, Dick's Sporting Goods, Amazon or any outdoor store near you.
Fun Find: Cotopaxi has a "surprise me" feature that allows customers to purchase a one-of-a-kind backpack that was made from leftover materials, thus promoting a more sustainable way of creating new goods!
Stay safe and enjoy your time exploring Acadia National Park!
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