Acadia National Park Self-Guided (GPS) Audio Driving Tour, Bar Harbor, Maine - Hidden Gems Scenic Drive
Places: 26 POIs
Distance: 26.75 mi
Duration: 1h:46m
GPS-guided narration through
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Tour #2279
Acadia National Park: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour of Scenic Overlooks incl. Cadillac Mountain
About this English self-guided 1h:46m driving tour in Bar Harbor
Hello and welcome to this UCPlaces tour of Acadia National Park, on the north eastern coast of Maine. My name is Dave, and it will be my pleasure serving as your co-pilot today.
This scenic driving tour of Acadia National Park begins near Bar Harbor at the historic Sieur de Monts Spring, where you'll explore the Wild Gardens of Acadia and the Nature Center. From there, you'll wind through the charming village of Otter Creek, taking in coastal vistas as you approach the stunning Sand Beach. Continuing along the rugged coastline, you’ll visit landmarks like Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff before finishing the tour with a breathtaking ascent to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the park and the Atlantic Ocean.
Today’s journey will cover about 20 miles and take an hour and a half to two hours to complete. The duration will depend on how much time you want to spend soaking in the views, and exploring trails.
Our tour today is designed to end at the summit of Cadillac Mountain. As of recent years, the National Park Service has implemented a timed-entry reservation system for vehicles driving up Cadillac Mountain, especially during the busy months from May through October. Permits are required for specific time slots and can be booked in advance on the Acadia National Park website.
We will begin today in Southern Bar Harbor, just off main street on SweetWater Circle. Follow your GPS, and we will begin shortly. Buckle up and enjoy the ride.
Top landmarks on this tour
Cadillac Mountain- Sand Beach
- Thunder Hole
- Jordan Pond Restaurant and Rest Area
- Bubble Rock
- Otter Cliff
- 1For the best experience, begin at the tour's recommended starting point and follow the stops in order.
- 2Want to start somewhere else? Simply use Start At on the tour screen, before tapping Start Tour, to begin from any stop.
- 3Need to detour or skip a stop along the way? Tap Tour Assistant (
![UCPlaces AI Bot Icon]()
) to use Force Play, Skip, and Back, for full flexibility.
) to use Force Play, Skip, and Back, for full flexibility.
Route Preview
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Places (POIs) visited during this tour
Place #1
![Map Pin]()
Recommended Starting Point
Distance: 0.17mi
, Attraction : Scenic Lookout
Park Loop Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
Egg Rock Overlook
Coming up on the left is one of the best scenic lookouts in Maine, Egg Rock Overlook, offering visitors stunning views of Egg Rock Lighthouse and the surrounding seascape. The overlook itself is well-marked, and there’s parking available nearby.
Perhaps the first thing you will notice is Egg Rock Lighthouse, situated on a small rocky island called Egg Rock, located in Frenchman Bay between Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula. The lighthouse, which was first built in 1875, is a classic example of a New England lighthouse and was designed to guide ships safely into Frenchman Bay. Though it's no longer open to the public, the lighthouse remains a picturesque symbol of Maine’s maritime history.
The sight of the white lighthouse with its red roof standing on a rocky island amid the blue waters of the bay is a quintessential Maine coastal scene. It’s also one of the more easily accessible lighthouse views in the area, as it’s visible from shore without needing a boat tour.
Additionally, from the overlook, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands, with Egg Rock and its lighthouse as the focal point in the distance. The waters of the bay reflect the sky and are often dotted with boats. On a clear day, the overlook provides excellent photo opportunities with the rugged coastal cliffs and expansive ocean views.
Egg Rock and the surrounding waters are home to various wildlife, particularly seabirds. Puffins, gulls, and other marine birds are commonly spotted in the area. Occasionally, seals and even whales can be seen in the waters around Egg Rock, especially if you're using binoculars.
In addition to the lighthouse, the overlook highlights the rocky coastline and surrounding natural beauty that makes Acadia National Park so beloved. During the autumn months, the fall foliage adds vibrant color to the landscape.
The lighting at sunrise and sunset makes the view especially dramatic, with the warm colors of the sky and soft light illuminating the lighthouse and ocean.
While the overlook is accessible year-round, it’s especially popular in the warmer months (spring through early fall) when the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration. However, even in the winter, the view from the overlook offers a serene, snowy landscape for those willing to brave the colder temperatures.
Egg Rock Overlook is a popular spot for photographers due to its panoramic views of the bay and lighthouse. The contrast between the rugged coastline, deep blue waters, and the stark white lighthouse creates striking visual compositions.
There are several nearby hiking trails in Acadia National Park for those who want to explore the park further on foot. The overlook is also a peaceful spot for a picnic, allowing you to enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean and lighthouse in the background.
Egg Rock Overlook is one of those perfect spots in Acadia where you can combine easy access with breathtaking views of the rugged Maine coast and its maritime history. Whether you're stopping for a quick photo, wildlife watching, or just soaking in the coastal beauty, it’s a must-visit location within the park.
Ok, let’s go cruise down the coast and indulge in more stunning sites.
Perhaps the first thing you will notice is Egg Rock Lighthouse, situated on a small rocky island called Egg Rock, located in Frenchman Bay between Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula. The lighthouse, which was first built in 1875, is a classic example of a New England lighthouse and was designed to guide ships safely into Frenchman Bay. Though it's no longer open to the public, the lighthouse remains a picturesque symbol of Maine’s maritime history.
The sight of the white lighthouse with its red roof standing on a rocky island amid the blue waters of the bay is a quintessential Maine coastal scene. It’s also one of the more easily accessible lighthouse views in the area, as it’s visible from shore without needing a boat tour.
Additionally, from the overlook, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands, with Egg Rock and its lighthouse as the focal point in the distance. The waters of the bay reflect the sky and are often dotted with boats. On a clear day, the overlook provides excellent photo opportunities with the rugged coastal cliffs and expansive ocean views.
Egg Rock and the surrounding waters are home to various wildlife, particularly seabirds. Puffins, gulls, and other marine birds are commonly spotted in the area. Occasionally, seals and even whales can be seen in the waters around Egg Rock, especially if you're using binoculars.
In addition to the lighthouse, the overlook highlights the rocky coastline and surrounding natural beauty that makes Acadia National Park so beloved. During the autumn months, the fall foliage adds vibrant color to the landscape.
The lighting at sunrise and sunset makes the view especially dramatic, with the warm colors of the sky and soft light illuminating the lighthouse and ocean.
While the overlook is accessible year-round, it’s especially popular in the warmer months (spring through early fall) when the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration. However, even in the winter, the view from the overlook offers a serene, snowy landscape for those willing to brave the colder temperatures.
Egg Rock Overlook is a popular spot for photographers due to its panoramic views of the bay and lighthouse. The contrast between the rugged coastline, deep blue waters, and the stark white lighthouse creates striking visual compositions.
There are several nearby hiking trails in Acadia National Park for those who want to explore the park further on foot. The overlook is also a peaceful spot for a picnic, allowing you to enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean and lighthouse in the background.
Egg Rock Overlook is one of those perfect spots in Acadia where you can combine easy access with breathtaking views of the rugged Maine coast and its maritime history. Whether you're stopping for a quick photo, wildlife watching, or just soaking in the coastal beauty, it’s a must-visit location within the park.
Ok, let’s go cruise down the coast and indulge in more stunning sites.
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Place #2
![Map Pin]()
Distance: 1.06mi
, Attraction : Fable
9R26+FV Bar Harbor, ME, USA
Story Time
We have a little bit of a drive before we arrive at the next point of interest on the tour today. How about a nice fable to broaden our minds? I knew you would be excited.
It’s called The Legend of Cadillac Mountain and the Dawn’s Gift, and it goes a little something like this…
Long ago, before the land was shaped by time, and before Acadia National Park was a refuge for all, the Wabanaki people told a tale of Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak in the land, and how it came to be the first place in the United States to greet the dawn.
In the days of old, the Earth and Sky lived in perfect harmony, with the Sun rising each morning to kiss the land and the Sea caressing the shores with gentle waves. Among the mountains of what would become Acadia, there was a young and humble hill named Wassaweja. Though small, Wassaweja loved the land deeply and wished for a way to protect it.
Every morning, Wassaweja would watch in awe as the Sun rose, bringing light and warmth to the creatures of the forest, the birds of the sky, and the fish of the sea. The Sun, known as Kisosen to the Wabanaki people, would start her journey from the distant horizon, far from Wassaweja’s humble peak, and Wassaweja wondered if she could ever get closer to this magnificent force of light.
One day, Wassaweja spoke to The Great Spirit of the land.
“Great Spirit,” she asked, “how can I help protect the forests and seas that I love? How can I ensure that they thrive?”
The Great Spirit listened and said, “If you wish to protect the land, you must first learn to rise. For only when you rise will you be able to greet the dawn and guide its light to your beloved home.”
Wassaweja was puzzled, for she was just a small hill, but her determination grew stronger with each passing day. She decided that she would rise—she would stretch as far as she could toward the sky, so that one day she might greet the Sun before all others.
Night after night, while the world slept, Wassaweja stretched herself upward. Her roots grew deep into the earth, connecting with the very heart of the land. Her summit reached higher and higher, pushing against the sky.
The creatures of the forest noticed her effort. The eagles flew in circles above her, calling words of encouragement. The moose and deer walked around her base, sending strength from the earth upward through their footsteps. Even the wind whispered through the trees, “Rise, Wassaweja, rise.”
Seasons passed, and Wassaweja’s patience and perseverance were rewarded. She grew taller and taller until one day, she became the highest peak in all the land. The Great Spirit smiled upon her, and Kisosen, the Sun, noticed Wassaweja’s great height and determination.
Moved by her effort, Kisosen approached the mountain and said, “You have worked hard and with great love for the land. From this day forward, I will grant you a gift: You will be the first place to feel my light each morning. As my rays fall upon you, you will guide them to the forests, the seas, and the creatures that you hold dear. You will be the protector of the dawn.”
From that day on, Wassaweja became known as Cadillac Mountain, and each morning, Kisosen’s golden rays would touch its peak first before spreading across the land. The mountain stood proudly, knowing that it was now the guardian of Acadia’s wilderness, its rocky shores, and its wildlife.
And so, to this day, the Sun rises first on Cadillac Mountain, blessing the park with light and warmth. Travelers from across the world come to witness this sacred event, where the first light of dawn spreads across the vast beauty of Acadia National Park, a reminder of how even the smallest hill, with great love and perseverance, can rise to become something magnificent.
And so what is the moral of the story? Through patience, dedication, and love for what you protect, even the humblest among us can achieve greatness and become guardians of the things that matter most.
It’s called The Legend of Cadillac Mountain and the Dawn’s Gift, and it goes a little something like this…
Long ago, before the land was shaped by time, and before Acadia National Park was a refuge for all, the Wabanaki people told a tale of Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak in the land, and how it came to be the first place in the United States to greet the dawn.
In the days of old, the Earth and Sky lived in perfect harmony, with the Sun rising each morning to kiss the land and the Sea caressing the shores with gentle waves. Among the mountains of what would become Acadia, there was a young and humble hill named Wassaweja. Though small, Wassaweja loved the land deeply and wished for a way to protect it.
Every morning, Wassaweja would watch in awe as the Sun rose, bringing light and warmth to the creatures of the forest, the birds of the sky, and the fish of the sea. The Sun, known as Kisosen to the Wabanaki people, would start her journey from the distant horizon, far from Wassaweja’s humble peak, and Wassaweja wondered if she could ever get closer to this magnificent force of light.
One day, Wassaweja spoke to The Great Spirit of the land.
“Great Spirit,” she asked, “how can I help protect the forests and seas that I love? How can I ensure that they thrive?”
The Great Spirit listened and said, “If you wish to protect the land, you must first learn to rise. For only when you rise will you be able to greet the dawn and guide its light to your beloved home.”
Wassaweja was puzzled, for she was just a small hill, but her determination grew stronger with each passing day. She decided that she would rise—she would stretch as far as she could toward the sky, so that one day she might greet the Sun before all others.
Night after night, while the world slept, Wassaweja stretched herself upward. Her roots grew deep into the earth, connecting with the very heart of the land. Her summit reached higher and higher, pushing against the sky.
The creatures of the forest noticed her effort. The eagles flew in circles above her, calling words of encouragement. The moose and deer walked around her base, sending strength from the earth upward through their footsteps. Even the wind whispered through the trees, “Rise, Wassaweja, rise.”
Seasons passed, and Wassaweja’s patience and perseverance were rewarded. She grew taller and taller until one day, she became the highest peak in all the land. The Great Spirit smiled upon her, and Kisosen, the Sun, noticed Wassaweja’s great height and determination.
Moved by her effort, Kisosen approached the mountain and said, “You have worked hard and with great love for the land. From this day forward, I will grant you a gift: You will be the first place to feel my light each morning. As my rays fall upon you, you will guide them to the forests, the seas, and the creatures that you hold dear. You will be the protector of the dawn.”
From that day on, Wassaweja became known as Cadillac Mountain, and each morning, Kisosen’s golden rays would touch its peak first before spreading across the land. The mountain stood proudly, knowing that it was now the guardian of Acadia’s wilderness, its rocky shores, and its wildlife.
And so, to this day, the Sun rises first on Cadillac Mountain, blessing the park with light and warmth. Travelers from across the world come to witness this sacred event, where the first light of dawn spreads across the vast beauty of Acadia National Park, a reminder of how even the smallest hill, with great love and perseverance, can rise to become something magnificent.
And so what is the moral of the story? Through patience, dedication, and love for what you protect, even the humblest among us can achieve greatness and become guardians of the things that matter most.
Read More
Tour itinerary stops | Additional places you'll see on this self-guided tour
Place 1
Egg Rock Overlook
Place 2
Story Time
Place 3
Schooner Head Estate and Cemetery
Place 4
Otter Point Overlook
Place 5
Marine Life
Place 6
Western Point Overlook and Little Hunters Beach
Place 7
Hunters Beach Overlook and Lighthouse
Place 8
Brooks and Streams
Place 9
Triad-Day Bridge
Place 10
Acadia by Carriage
Place 11
Seal Harbor
Place 12
Jordan Pond
Place 13
Urban Legends Part 1
Place 14
Urban Legends Part 2
Place 15
Climbing Cadillac by Car
Place 16
Indigenous Peoples
Place 17
Cadillac Mountain
Place 18
Sand Beach
Place 19
Thunder Hole
Place 20
Jordan Pond Restaurant and Rest Area
Place 21
Bubble Rock
Place 22
Otter Cliff
Place 23
Bar Harbor
Place 24
Eagle Lake Overlook
Place 25
Sieur de Monts Springs and Wild Gardens
Place 26
Summit
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Have any questions about this tour? Or a general travel / self-guided tours question? That's completely natural
+ How long does this tour take?
Most travelers complete this tour in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on pace, time spent at each stop, and optional detours. Having said that, please remember that self-guided tours are extremly flexible (you can start, pause, continue anytime) and everyone has their own pace.
+ What does this tour include?
This self-guided driving tour includes 26 stops, covering top attractions such as Egg Rock Overlook, Story Time, Schooner Head Estate and Cemetery, Otter Point Overlook, Marine Life.
+ Where does the tour start?
The tour starts at Egg Rock Overlook (Address: Park Loop Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA). You can begin the tour there or join from any stop along the route.
+ What type of tour is this?
This is a self-guided driving tour designed to be completed by car, covering scenic routes, city highlights and optional key stops.
+ Can I do this tour at my own pace?
Yes, this is a self-guided driving tour, so you can start anytime and explore at your own pace. You can pause, skip stops, or spend more time at places that interest you. You can even split it into multiple days. Explore however feels right for you. The only vaiables that might affect your pace are speed limits and traffic congestion.
+ Do I need a car for this tour?
Yes, this is a driving tour, designed to be completed by car, with stops spread across different locations connected by a driving route.
+ Do I need anything in order to take the tour?
There are two things that you need - 1. A mobile phone (with the UCPlaces app installed and active location services, and a cellular data plan with a decent signal for downloading the tour). 2. A car. Here are some recommendations for a great experience: 1. Make sure your phone is fully charged and bring a charging cable for your car. 2. Connect your phone to the car speaker system via bluetooth or use our CarPlay/Android Auto option for the best experience.
+ How will I navigate from point to point during the tour?
The tour uses GPS-based navigation through the UCPlaces app, with automatic audio playback and step-by-step directions between stops. This works great either directly from your phone, or while connected to your car's multimedia system and using our CarPlay or Android Auto options. Just follow the route and listen to the audio guide. Use the resume feature to continue from where you recently stopped (or closed the app). Easily skip or go back to stops.
+ What known landmarks and main sites does this tour have?
The top landmarks and main sites on this tour include Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Jordan Pond Restaurant and Rest Area, Bubble Rock and Otter Cliff. In total, the tour has 26 points of interest along the route.
+ Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Yes, self-guided tours are ideal for families and small groups, allowing everyone to explore comfortably without being tied to a fixed schedule.
+ What makes a self-guided tour better than a guided tour?
Self-guided tours are more flexible, affordable, and personalized. You can avoid crowds, choose your pace, and focus on the stops that interest you most.
+ I installed the app and it's now asking for GPS and media access permissions, why?
The app is your tour-guide, it needs to know where you are located on the map to be able to trigger the points of interest. It also needs access to audio and media files to provide you with this experience.
+ What happens if there are unexpected roadblocks or navigation issues?
We have been working hard to deliver a great experience. Though you may run into unexpected obstacles (the world is constantly changing), our app has multiple features and mechanisms in place to help you overcome them, including: AI assistance, force play an audio if you can't reach the stop, skip or return to stops, automatic rerouting and more.
+ Can I take the tour in my language?
Though all of our tours are primarily in English, many tours are muyltilingual (including: Spanish, German, Portuguese, French, Japanese, Hebrew, French, Arabic and more...). The tour language options depend on the specific tour - You can easily check which languages are available in the tour screen!