Maine is one of the luckiest states in the country! Why? Well, for a lot of reasons. From food to people to history to attractions. But one of the top reasons we consider ourselves lucky to be here is access to Acadia National Park in Maine. Unfortunately, “access” isn’t always so accessible. The high cost of keeping national parks running means that not everyone can simply arrive and pay the entry fee without some serious savings. If you’d love to visit but feel as though you can’t afford it consider making your trip on one of the days throughout the year when entry is free! Then you are free to take full advantage of all the hiking and outdoor activities that one of the best places in Maine has to offer.

1. January 17, 2022: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
amonroy / Flickr
Some might be surprised to know that Acadia National Park is open all year. While you'll always want to check conditions before planning any activities, it's nice to visit when there are fewer tourists and this important holiday is a great day to do it!
2. April 16, 2022: First Day Of National Park Week
Peter Rintels / Flickr
Created in 2019, this entire week has been designated as a time to appreciate each and every National park across the country. To help celebrate you can visit Acadia on the first day of the holiday week with no entry fee. Conditions are likely to still be chilly in April, but it's a great way to kick off spring!

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3. August 4, 2022: Great American Outdoors Day
vinsanity2009 / Flickr
A great way to appreciate the outdoors is by getting outdoors! This act was passed in 2020 to fully and permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Visit the park on this summer day and you'll have access to a beautiful Maine day and be able to save your money for a donation later or for lunch to help fuel your adventures.
4. September 24, 2022: National Public Lands Day
ugardener / Flickr
About one month later head to the park for the last of summer and some early fall fun. This special day was created in 1994 to host the largest one-day volunteer effort in the country. It's held on the fourth Saturday in September each year, so if you miss this one plan on making it next year. And be sure to look into ways you can lend a hand.
5. November 11, 2022: Veterans Day
pavdw / Flickr
One of our favorite days of the year celebrates the women and men who have sacrificed on the front lines for America. Veterans Day came to be in 1938 when President Dwight D. Eisenhower's Congressional Act made it so. It became an official day to honor all veterans of all wars in 1954. While this day is free for all, remember that all veterans and Gold Star families have permanent free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including parks, wildlife refuges, and forests.

Acadia National Park is one of the best ways to spend a few days in Maine. With many hiking trails, outdoor activities, and amazing views to explore you can make the most of your free day in Acadia National Park.

Need a little inspiration for your visit? Check out 10 of the greatest Acadia National Park hiking trails for beginners.

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| January 01, 1970

What are some great hiking trails in Acadia National Park in Maine?

Acadia has some amazing hiking trails that vary in many different ranges of skill. You are sure to find something that will suit you here in this beautiful park. You can of course spend a little bit of time just about anywhere off the loop road to climb on the rocks which are super fun. But for an easy trail, the Jordan Pond trail is among the best. If you want something more challenging you can step up to one of the Bubble trails right next to Jordan Pond. Both the North and South Bubble trails boast amazing views and even a balance rock at the top. To continue in difficulty going up Cadillac Mountain is a great option too. Sure you can drive up to the top but how much more rewarding is it to hike it. Then of course, if you are daring the Beehive and the Precipice trail can be perilous and adventurous. Whatever you choose there are sure to be awesome trails for you in Acadia National Park. 

What are the best things to do outside in Acadia National Park?

Hiking is always the easiest and most popular way to enjoy the great outdoor fun that can be had in Acadia National Park but fortunately, you are not limited to doing just that. Many cruises are available to get a unique perspective of Mount Desert Island. Also, the Park Loop Road is a very popular spot to ride a bike, or even challenge yourself and ascend Cadillac Mountain on two wheels. Lots of horse carriage roads are available for horseback riding or even taking a trip in a horse-drawn carriage ride. Then of course the prevalent Sand Beach right in Acadia is a great way to spend the afternoon. 

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