Acadia Pass Question

Question

Can anyone clarify the park pass situation? I have a National Park pass. Will I need an additional pass to drive on the Loop Road or are the driving passes required onlyfor the Cadillac Mountain road?

Answer

If you have a valid National Park pass (such as the America the Beautiful pass), it will cover most of your entrance fees to Acadia National Park. However, there is a specific situation with driving passes that you should be aware of:

1. National Park Pass (America the Beautiful Pass): Your National Park pass will cover the general entrance fee to Acadia National Park, which includes access to the park's main areas and hiking trails, as well as access to the Loop Road, which is a scenic drive that loops through much of the park. You do not need an additional pass to drive the Loop Road if you already have a National Park pass.

2. Cadillac Mountain Road: The Cadillac Mountain road, however, requires a separate reservation during peak times. In 2023, Acadia implemented a timed-entry system for Cadillac Mountain, meaning you need to make a reservation to drive to the summit, especially during the busy summer months (typically from May to October). This reservation is in addition to any park passes and is required for all vehicles accessing the summit, whether you're using a National Park pass or not.

In summary: - Your National Park pass will cover access to the general park and the Loop Road. - If you want to drive up Cadillac Mountain, you will need a separate timed-entry reservation for the Cadillac Mountain road (this is not covered by the National Park pass).

Be sure to check for availability and make reservations for Cadillac Mountain well in advance, especially during peak tourist season. This system helps control traffic and ensure a smooth experience for all visitors to Acadia.