Length: Various
Elevation Gain: Various
Route Type: Loop, Out and Back
Difficulty: Easy
The Carriage Roads meander throughout Acadia National Park’s east side of Mt. Desert Island and feature 17 unique bridges. According to the National Park Service, “Forty-five miles of rustic carriage roads, the gift of philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. and family, weave around the mountains and valleys of Acadia National Park. Rockefeller, a skilled horseman, wanted to travel on motor-free byways via horse and carriage into the heart of Mount Desert Island.” (NPS)
Today you can access the carriage roads on foot, bicycle, or via a horse-drawn carriage. There are wonderful photography opportunities all along the carriage roads, from ponds to forests to unique bridges, you will surely find something you love!
Accessing the Carriage Roads in Acadia National Park
Starting Location: Various
GPS (DD): Various
There are many ways to access the Carriage roads. Use the Carriage Roads NPS map to plan your trip. In addition to several access points, there are also rules to follow when you travel on the Carriage roads. For example, “Carriage roads are closed to motorized vehicles, including Class 2 and 3 E-bikes, Segways, and Hoverboards. Exceptions are provided for individuals with disabilities.” Furthermore, some hiking trails are only accessible by foot. For a complete list of rules, seasonal closures, and for more information, be sure to visit the Acadia National Park website. Bike rentals are also available in Acadia and are a great way to visit the park.
Find Your Favorite Location
No matter where you stop, Acadia National Park provides amazing landscape photography opportunities. Be sure to take your time and find your favorite location along the way. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife! Don’t forget to add detailed macro shots, change your perspective, and most importantly have fun.
Before making your trip, consider checking the official Acadia National Park website or contacting the park’s visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, accessibility, and any recent changes. As with any visit to a national park, it’s important to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while exploring this beautiful area. If you are able to go, I hope you enjoy your time photographing the Carriage Roads!
Happy Travels!
Juventa, Co-Owner, National Park Photographer
Want to learn more about Acadia National Park? Check out these maps, guides & books:
- Best Easy Day Hiking Guide and Trail Map Bundle: Acadia National Park
- Carriage Roads of Acadia: A Pocket Guide
- Moon Acadia National Park: Seaside Towns, Fall Foliage, Cycling & Paddling (Travel Guide)
- Acadia National Park: The Complete Guide (Color Travel Guide)
- Historic Acadia National Park: The Stories Behind One of America’s Great Treasures
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