Parking Pass with Senior Pass

Question

Hi. I have a senior pass (now I guess they're called America the Beautiful passes) which provides free entry to the park. Most parks I've been in do not check parking passes once you're in the park. I guess because there are so many uncontrolled entrances to Acadia, though, visitors are supposed to display their park passes on their dashboards when they are parking. My question is what is it I'm supposed to display? I assume it's not just my senior-pass card. Thanks.

Answer

Great question! Acadia National Park, like many other parks, uses a combination of entrance passes and parking permits to regulate access and ensure visitors are following park rules. When you use your "America the Beautiful" Senior Pass for free entry into Acadia, you're correct that this pass grants you access to the park itself. However, to park in certain areas within the park, you do need to display an additional parking pass on your dashboard. Here’s what you need to know:

1. What You Need to Display for Parking:

When parking at Acadia National Park, especially in areas that require a permit (such as some popular trailheads and overlooks), you must display a separate parking pass along with your Senior Pass. The Senior Pass itself grants you free entry, but it does not automatically serve as a parking pass.

Display Your Senior Pass: While parking, you should always have your "America the Beautiful" Senior Pass visible, but this is not the sole parking permit needed.
Get a Specific Parking Pass: Acadia National Park requires a parking pass to be displayed on your dashboard when you park in designated areas. You can obtain a parking pass either from the park office or at various visitor centers in the park. The parking pass is typically a hang-tag or a simple paper permit, which you will place on your dashboard.
Valid for Specific Areas: Some popular areas like Jordan Pond, Cadillac Mountain, and others require the parking pass even if you have a Senior Pass, as parking can be limited and managed to reduce congestion.

2. How to Get the Parking Pass:

Visitor Centers: Upon entering the park, stop by any visitor center or ranger station to ask for a parking pass. Be sure to mention that you have a Senior Pass to get a free parking pass, if applicable.
Online Information: Acadia's website and the National Park Service (NPS) offer information on where to pick up parking passes, and in some cases, you may be able to download a pass online for temporary use.

3. Additional Information:

Check the Signage: Even if you have your pass, it’s important to read parking signs at the park. Some areas may still charge a fee or have specific parking regulations depending on the time of year or the location within the park.
Be Aware of Lot Availability: Acadia can get crowded, especially during the summer months, so finding parking near popular spots can be difficult. Arriving early or using shuttle services when available can help mitigate this challenge.
Keep the Pass Visible: Make sure to clearly display your parking pass on your dashboard to avoid any fines or ticketing. The pass should be visible to park rangers or enforcement personnel checking for proper parking permits.

In summary, while your Senior Pass grants you free entry to Acadia National Park, you will need to obtain and display a separate parking pass to park in many areas of the park. Be sure to ask for this pass at the visitor center or ranger station when you arrive, and keep it visible in your car while parked. Enjoy your time at Acadia!