8 Classic National Park Hikes Every Backpacker Should Do
It's hard to find an ugly spot in the national parks. But these eight hikes take it to the next level, with gorgeous scenery and wildlife. Go for a walk.
Acadia National Park
Hiking in Acadia National Park is the best way to experience coastal Maine’s most beautiful landscapes. This well-traveled park — America’s oldest east of the Mississippi — wends century-old carriage roads and rough-and-tumble trails around weathered granite peaks, giving its 2 million annual visitors a taste of life beside the sea.
Some of the best hikes in Acadia National Park are low-mileage, perfect for families eager for a half day excursion. And the park’s resident animals, from moose to falcon to the occasional black bear, will be sure to keep you on your toes for the duration of your stay.
Finding Acadia
When was the last time you said, “let’s go” and actually went? It’s time to hit the trail.
Best 100 Miles: Precipice Trail, Acadia National Park, ME
This mile of heart-pounding mountain climbing is among the best 100 miles of trail in the whole national park system.
Acadia National Park: Mountain Carriage Loop
This old 11.1-mile carriage loop is a family-friendly adventure complete with lakes, streams, easy walking, and beautiful ocean vistas. Open to cyclists and hikers.
Acadia National Park: Cadillac Mountain Loop
Take in craggy seaside views from the summit of 1,532-foot Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the Atlantic coast, on this 4.4-mile loop.
Acadia National Park: Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Loop
This 10.3-mile dayhike traverses the rugged topography of Mt. Desert Island, leading to a broad summit high above an island-speckled sea.
Acadia National Park: Cadillac Mountain via Dorr Mountain
Summit three Acadia peaks on an 8.8-mile loop, passing overlooks of neighboring bays and island clusters along Maine's coastline.
National Parks: View Finder
Go ahead, look again. And again. These images are worth a third, fourth, and then a tenth gaze.
Local Hikes: Northeast
Paddle to Maryland's Assateague Island; pack an ice axe for the Presidentials.
Readers' Choice Northeast Hikes: Bernard Mountain, Acadia National Park, ME
Hike to a crowd-free view of the ocean.
Where Solitude Rules - Lonely Summits
You won't find bottlenecks on these untrammeled peaks.
Find Hikes and Trips in National Parks and Regional Parks
Find hikes in National Parks and regional parks with our comprehensive guides.
Is Inadequate Funding the Main Problem Facing the National Park System?
This question fuels the debate regarding how to help the aging national park system improve.
Phenomenon: Glacial Relics
The Ice Age left its mark from Acadia to Yosemite. Here's scenic evidence.
Best Damn Weekend Ever: Acadia National Park
Avoid the crowds in Maine's Acadia National Park by skipping getting a jump on the season and hiking the park in the Spring. Stephen King country never looked so good.
May Close-to-Home Hikes
Our map team has been hard at work plotting the coolest hikes. Check out May's selections here.
National Parks Report Card
We surveyed more than 40 scientists, conservationists, and professional adventurers, then ranked the 15 parks that are most in peril from climate change.
Essential National Park Skills: The Ultimate Park Pass
Write your own ticket to new adventures with these 10 territory-expanding skills.
Best Dayhikes In America
With strong legs and an ambitious plan, you can see more wild country in 12 hours than some backpackers see in a week, and still make it home in time for dinner.
Best Backpacking In Maine
Our comprehensive guide to the best backpacking you can find in Maine.
Maine's Seals In The Surf
Maine's seal pups are usually born in May, making early summer an ideal time to witness the youngsters learning to swim and fish.
