The tallest part of the park is on Cadillac Mountain. Standing at about 1,500 feet, the granite-topped mountain has little vegetation, which allows for stunning views of the park and Bar Harbor. It’s also the first spot to see the sun rise in the continental US. Arriving at sunrise is a popular activity, so give yourself plenty of time for it. You can spend hours traversing over the rocks and taking in the views and taking pictures. You can drive up to the top, although you should be prepared for crowds during the summer and at sunrise.

The Park Loop Road is a 27 mile road that runs around the park and will allow you to stop at some of the park’s major sights. It’s one way for some of the road. Along the way, you can see Thunder Hole, Sand Beach and Otter Cliff. Start at Hulls Cove Visitor Center. Overcrowding can be a constant problem in the park, so be prepared to encounter cars and pedestrians along the way, depending on when you go.

Jordan Pond is a clear glacial pond right off Park Loop Road. It reaches a maximum depth of about 150 feet. It’s a nice change of pace from coastline that dominates the rest of the park. You can take the Jordan Pond Nature Trail to reach it easily. Nearby you can also check out the Jordan Pond House, the only full-service restaurant in the park. You can stop in for a quick bite or a full meal while enjoying the scenic views.