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Acadia National Park

FOLIAGE DISCOVERY CENTER

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When autumn paints the landscape in vivid shades of red, orange, and gold, there’s no better place to be than Maine’s Acadia National Park. This pristine wilderness along the rugged coast of Maine transforms into a masterpiece of fall foliage. To help you make the most of your leaf-peeping adventure, we’ve put together the ultimate travel itinerary for Acadia National Park, complete with top foliage viewing locations, engaging activities, historic landmarks, cozy places to stay, and delectable dining options, all amidst the stunning backdrop of fall in Acadia.

Top Foliage Viewing Locations

Acadia National Park, nestled along Maine’s picturesque coast, is a natural canvas that comes alive with vibrant fall colors each autumn. The journey to witness this breathtaking transformation begins with discovering the park’s top foliage viewing locations. From the summit of Cadillac Mountain to the serene shores of Jordan Pond, these spots offer front-row seats to the grand spectacle of nature’s autumn artistry.

Cadillac Mountain

Begin your journey at the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the East Coast.

Its summit offers panoramic views of the park’s colorful forests, surrounding islands, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Jordan Pond

A leisurely stroll around Jordan Pond reveals a mirrored surface reflecting the surrounding foliage, making it a serene spot for leaf peeping.

Schoodic Peninsula

Take a scenic drive or bike ride along the Schoodic Peninsula Loop Road for breathtaking views of coastal forests meeting the sea.

Cadillac Mountain

Begin your journey at the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the East Coast.

Its summit offers panoramic views of the park’s colorful forests, surrounding islands, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Jordan Pond House
This historic tea house and restaurant has been serving visitors since the late 1800s and offers a glimpse into Acadia’s past.
Jordan Pond House
This historic tea house and restaurant has been serving visitors since the late 1800s and offers a glimpse into Acadia’s past.

Five Best
Places to Stay

1. Jordan Pond House
2. Bar Harbor Inn and Spa
3. Asticou Inn
4. Hearthside Inn Bed & Breakfast
5. Blackwoods Campground

Five Top
Places to Eat

1. Thurston’s Lobster Pound
2. Jordan Pond House Restaurant
3. Mache Bistro
4. The Burning Tree
5. The Travelin Lobster

Top Foliage Activities

Hiking

Acadia offers a network of hiking trails, including the popular Jordan Pond Path and the challenging Precipice Trail, all showcasing the park’s stunning fall foliage.

Photography

If you want to truly experience India, one of the best ways to do so, is on foot. India is a country that you need to experience in an up close and personal way.

Scenic Drives

Enjoy a leisurely drive along the Park Loop Road, offering access to some of the park’s best foliage viewpoints.

Wildlife Watching

Fall is a great time for wildlife sightings. Keep an eye out for deer, moose, and a variety of bird species

Boating

Experience Acadia’s fall foliage from the water by renting a kayak or taking a scenic boat tour around the coastal areas.

With this comprehensive itinerary, you’re all set to embark on an unforgettable foliage viewing journey in Acadia National Park. As you explore the park’s top foliage locations, engage in exciting activities, uncover historic landmarks, find comfortable places to stay, and savor delicious cuisine, you’ll immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of fall in this captivating coastal wonderland.

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PACIFIC FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Pacific

The Pacific Coast states provide a coastal foliage experience like no other. From the majestic Redwoods to the vibrant vineyards, it’s a region that combines natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring the wine country of California, the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, or Olympic National Park in Washington, the Pacific Coast states offer a captivating fusion of coastal charm and abundant fall colors. Here, you can witness the transition of seasons in a setting that’s both picturesque and culturally rich. This is where the allure of the coastline and the enchantment of autumn harmonize to create a one-of-a-kind foliage adventure.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Early September to Mid-November

Sea Level: Late September to late November

Popular Destinations

Wine Country, California; Columbia River Gorge, Oregon; Olympic National Park, Washington
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Mountain West FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Mountain West

The Mountain West region presents a breathtaking foliage experience with its rugged peaks and alpine landscapes. Witness the aspen groves turning vibrant shades of gold amid the mountainous terrain and throw in a hike, camp, or canoe for an extra dose of adventure. The Mountain West is a region that captures the essence of autumn’s majesty at its most grand and dramatic.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Late September to Late October

Sea Level: Mid-October to Mid-November

Popular Destinations

Aspen, Colorado; Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming; Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Idaho

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MIDWEST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Midwest

Explore tranquil lakes, rolling farmland, and charming small towns that come alive with autumn colors. From the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri to the Kettle Moraine State Forest in Wisconsin and the Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa, the Midwest’s natural beauty is complemented by the charm of its communities. This is a place where the autumn foliage showcases a quieter, yet no less enchanting, side of the season. It’s a region where you can escape the hustle and bustle, savor the crisp fall air, and embrace the simple joys of the changing seasons. 

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Early October to Mid-November

Sea Level: Mid-October to Mid-November

Popular Destinations

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri; Kettle Moraine State Forest, Wisconsin; Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa

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GREAT LAKES FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Great Lakes

The Great Lake states enchant leaf peepers with their unique combination of natural beauty, gorgeous lakes, and enchanting wilderness. This region is a paradise for those seeking an autumn adventure that seamlessly blends the breathtaking beauty of the Great Lakes with the enchanting allure of the wilderness. The striking contrast of autumn foliage against the backdrop of vast, sparkling waters creates a visual masterpiece that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Late September to Mid-October

Sea Level: Early October to Late November

Popular Destinations

Door County, Wisconsin; Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan; Hocking Hills, Ohio
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Mid Atlantic FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why Mid Atlantic​

The vibrant colors of a Mid-Atlantic fall beautifully complement its historic charm, rugged wilderness, and coastal allure. With its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Mid-Atlantic region is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Late September to Late-October

Sea Level: Late October to Mid-November

Popular Destinations

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia; Hudson Valley, New York; Eastern Shore, Maryland
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SOUTHEAST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT​

Why the Southeast​

The Southeast combines stunning natural beauty with quintessential Southern hospitality. Journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia, immerse yourself in the mystical allure of the Great Smoky Mountains that straddle Tennessee and North Carolina, or follow the Natchez Trace Parkway through Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama. From historic cities to breathtaking mountain landscapes the Southeastern US is where the charm and magic of autumn meet.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Early October to Mid-November

Sea Level: Late October to Late November

Popular Destinations

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia; Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina; Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi/Tennessee/Alabama
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NEW ENGLAND FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why New England​

New England is revered as the most reliable foliage destination region in the US, and with good reason. It boasts a rich history, charming small towns, and a plethora of outdoor activities to complement your foliage expedition.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation:
Late September to Early October

Sea Level:
Early to Mid-October

Popular Destinations

Santa Fe, New Mexico; Sedona, Arizona; Lost Maples State Natural Area, Texas

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SOUTHWEST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT

Why the Southwest

The Southwest region offers a foliage adventure like no other. It offers an untraditional foliage experience, highlighted by the rugged beauty of the desert, the striking colors of the canyons, and the mystical allure of its arid landscapes. This region provides a captivating contrast to the typical autumn scenes, where you’ll experience cooler temperatures, where you’ll experience cooler temperatures and find yourself enveloped in the warm, earthy tones of fall.

Peak Foliage

High Elevation: Mid-October to Mid-November

Sea Level: Early November to Mid December

Popular Destinations

Santa Fe, New Mexico; Sedona, Arizona; Lost Maples State Natural Area, Texas

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