Acadia National Park Winter Wonderland Private Driving Tour
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your local guide, Joe Grollino of Island Wonders Tour Company, will reveal a side of Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island that few get to experience. Forget the summer crowds and bustling traffic; this is a tour for those who seek the tranquil, majestic beauty of winter in Maine.
The winter landscape:
When the first snow falls, Acadia transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, blanketing the park's rugged granite peaks and rocky shorelines. On this tour, you'll witness this serene landscape at its finest!
A peaceful park:
The quiet season offers solitude, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty without distraction.
Iconic scenery, now with a frosty twist:
See familiar sights in a new light, with frost-dusted evergreens and ice-rimmed coastlines painting a stunning picture.
Ever-present sea:
The dramatic coastline remains a constant, with waves crashing against the icy rocks and cliffs, creating a spectacular, powerful display.
Available options
Acadia National Park Winter Wonderland Private Driving Tour
Pickup included
What's included
We give you plenty of extra time So you never have to feel rushed.
Bottled water
Hot cocoa and/or hot apple cider
You control the heater
A year-round local tourguide with passion and knowledge of the area.
Detailed itinerary
1
Catch the Atlantic Coastline in its Winter Grandeur! While Cadillac Mountain's summit road is closed, the stunning pink granite coast remains accessible. We'll travel along the plowed portion of the Park Loop Road, from Schooner Head Road to Otter Cliff Road, to visit Acadia's most scenic ocean views. Experience the famous Thunder Hole as winter waves crash into the rocky inlet, creating a unique and powerful spectacle. Witness a rare sight at Sand Beach, where the ocean meets a beach made of sand and shell, now framed by a tranquil, wintry landscape. See ice formations and gaze out at the amazing vistas from the Otter Cliffs. At Jordan Pond you can capture stunning photos of the frozen pond set against the snow-dusted Bubbles mountains. Sieur de Monts Spring, Eagle Lake, and so much more awaits! Take the time to explore trails along the way, or enjoy the views from inside the heated 4-wheel drive Jeep Cherokee.
2
Between Bar Harbor and Bass Harbor we'll see the villages of Mt. Desert, Otter Creek, Seal Harbor, Northeast Harbor, Somesville, Southwest Harbor, and Manset. We'll also see the one of a kind Somes Sound along the way, with so many other opportunities for photos or hiking. You'll also have the chance to stop and warm up at a local bakery or restaurant. All tours are customizable, just contact Island Wonders Tour Company of Bar Harbor and we'll design the day around you!
3
Visit the historic Bass Harbor Lighthouse on the "quiet side" of Mount Desert Island. You'll have the opportunity to see the natural Seawall area, and take a walk on the Wonderland trail or the Ship Harbor trail. See the local working Lobster Harbor of Bass Harbor, and the breathtaking panoramas of Acadia's wild Western Mountains.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Important information
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is a charming coastal town in Maine, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and proximity to Acadia National Park. It offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and New England charm.
Top Attractions
Acadia National Park
A stunning national park with rugged coastline, forested mountains, and diverse wildlife. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and scenic drives.
Nature
Multiple days for full exploration
Free entry, but some activities may have fees
Cadillac Mountain
The highest point on the Atlantic coast in the U.S., offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and ocean.
Nature
1-2 hours for the visit
Free entry, but parking fees may apply
Bar Harbor Village Green
The heart of downtown Bar Harbor, featuring a picturesque green space surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
Historical
1-2 hours for exploration
Free to visit
Jordan Pond House
A historic restaurant and tea house located on the shores of Jordan Pond, known for its famous popovers and scenic views.
Cultural
1-2 hours for a meal and short hike
Moderate (prices for popovers and tea)
Thunder Hole
A natural ocean inlet where waves crash dramatically against the rocks, creating a thrilling spectacle.
Nature
30-60 minutes for the visit
Free entry
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lobster Roll
A classic New England sandwich featuring fresh lobster meat served on a buttered, toasted bun.
Lunch
Contains shellfish, gluten (from the bun)
Maine Clam Chowder
A creamy soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, and other vegetables, often served with oyster crackers.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains dairy, gluten (from oyster crackers)
Blueberry Pie
A sweet pie filled with wild Maine blueberries, often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Dessert
Contains gluten (from the crust)
Popular Activities
Hiking in Acadia National Park
Kayaking on the ocean or lakes
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Beachcombing
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Yoga classes
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the most popular time to visit Bar Harbor, with warm weather, long daylight hours, and all attractions and accommodations fully open. It's perfect for outdoor activities and exploring Acadia National Park.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-5:00 (Eastern Standard Time, EST) or GMT-4:00 (Eastern Daylight Time, EDT) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Bar Harbor is a generally safe destination for travelers. Common safety concerns include petty theft, traffic accidents, and outdoor hazards. Exercise normal precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited services
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from Bar Harbor
- Bangor International Airport • 60 miles (97 km) from Bar Harbor
By bus
Downtown Bar Harbor
Getting around
Public transport
Free shuttle service connecting key attractions, parking lots, and downtown Bar Harbor. Runs seasonally from June to October.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Bar Harbor
West Street
Eagle Lake
Day trips
Winter Harbor and Schoodic Peninsula
40 miles (64 km) from Bar Harbor • Half day to full day
A quieter alternative to Acadia National Park, offering stunning coastal views, hiking trails, and a charming fishing village.
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
10 miles (16 km) from Bar Harbor • Half day
A picturesque lighthouse located at the southern tip of Mount Desert Island, offering stunning views of the coastline.
Camden and Rockland
60 miles (97 km) from Bar Harbor • Full day
Charming coastal towns offering a mix of historic sites, museums, and scenic beauty.
Festivals
Bar Harbor Music Festival • June to August
Bar Harbor Lobster Festival • Late July
Acadia Night Sky Festival • Late September
Pro tips
- Visit Acadia National Park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and secure parking
- Use the Island Explorer shuttle service to avoid parking hassles and reduce your carbon footprint
- Try the famous popovers at Jordan Pond House, a must-visit spot in Acadia National Park
- Explore the charming streets of downtown Bar Harbor, with its unique shops, galleries, and restaurants
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, with layered clothing and appropriate footwear
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
