MDI for July 4

Question

We vacation on MDI almost every summer, usually in late july and early August. This coming summer we may be there with our 20-something kids from late June until mid-July, staying in Tremont. Is there anything we need to know about Fourth of July and/or the Flamingo Festival? We have access to a kitchen so we are not worried about restaurants. But what is traffic like? How hard is getting around Southwest Harbor? Is it worthwhile to go into Bar Harbor on the Fourth? Is there anything we should try not to miss? Are trail-heads and boat launches any harder to access than usual? Over the years I’ve noticed that July is less crowded than August; I assume July 4 week will be similar to August as far as crowds go, especially with the Fourth falling on a Friday this year.

Answer

It sounds like you have a great time planned for your summer visit to Mount Desert Island (MDI)! The Fourth of July on MDI can be a very special experience, but there are some things to consider in terms of crowds, traffic, and activities, especially with the added festivities like the Flamingo Festival. Here's what you can expect:

Traffic and Getting Around Southwest Harbor: The traffic during the Fourth of July weekend can get a bit heavy, especially around Bar Harbor, as it is the busiest town on the island. Since you’ll be staying in Tremont, you’ll be a bit removed from the main hustle and bustle, but be prepared for more congestion as visitors flock to the island. Southwest Harbor is generally less crowded than Bar Harbor, but it can still see increased traffic during holidays. Parking can be tricky in the more tourist-heavy areas, so try to plan ahead if you're going to popular spots.

Visiting Bar Harbor on the Fourth: Bar Harbor is the central hub for Fourth of July celebrations on MDI, with fireworks, parades, and a variety of activities. The town holds an annual Independence Day parade, which is a fun event, but expect it to be crowded. If you enjoy small-town parades and festivities, it can be worthwhile to visit, but be prepared for traffic and parking challenges. The fireworks over the harbor are a major highlight, and many people enjoy watching them from the shore or by boat. However, if you're seeking a quieter, more relaxed experience, you might want to avoid Bar Harbor on the Fourth and focus on other parts of the island.

Flamingo Festival: The Flamingo Festival typically takes place in early July in Southwest Harbor, and it's a great local event with a quirky, fun atmosphere. It's mostly family-friendly and includes a mix of music, food, and activities. It may draw crowds to Southwest Harbor, but it's usually not as overwhelming as Bar Harbor on the Fourth. If you're there during the Flamingo Festival, it's a fun event to check out for the whole family, especially if you're looking for a more laid-back experience compared to the Bar Harbor festivities.

Trailheads and Boat Launches: The popular trailheads in Acadia National Park and boat launches can be a bit busier than usual during the July 4th week, as many visitors flock to the park for hiking, biking, and water activities. Be prepared for more crowded parking areas and longer waits at popular spots. Some trailheads near popular areas like Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, and the Ocean Path can fill up quickly. If you’re planning to hike, it’s best to get an early start to avoid the crowds and find parking. For boat launches, there may be more boats and kayaks on the water, so consider arriving early if you want to rent a kayak or take a guided boat tour.

Things to Not Miss on MDI: While the crowds can increase during the holiday, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy on MDI that will give you a unique experience:

Cadillac Mountain Sunrise or Sunset: This is a must-do on MDI, especially if you want to enjoy the island's beauty without the crowds. Getting up early for a sunrise hike or heading up for a sunset is worth it for the stunning views.
Jordan Pond: A classic Acadia experience, the Jordan Pond House is a great place for a relaxing walk around the pond or a traditional popover meal. It’s best to go early to avoid the crowds, but it’s still a beautiful place to relax.
Drive the Park Loop Road: The Park Loop Road takes you through some of the park’s most scenic spots, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff. This is a good option if you want to see the sights without spending too much time hiking.
Schoodic Peninsula: If you’re looking for a quieter experience away from the crowds, head to the Schoodic Peninsula. It’s part of Acadia National Park but much less crowded than the main island, offering peaceful views and some great hiking trails.
Bar Harbor’s Fireworks Display: If you decide to go to Bar Harbor on the Fourth, don’t miss the fireworks. The view from the shore or from a boat is incredible. Just be prepared for large crowds.

Final Thoughts: While July 4th on MDI can be busy, especially in Bar Harbor, you can still find quieter, peaceful experiences on the island by visiting places like the Schoodic Peninsula or taking a sunrise hike. Getting an early start for hikes, bike rides, and boat trips will help you avoid the bulk of the crowds. If you're concerned about crowds in Bar Harbor, it’s perfectly fine to skip it on the Fourth and enjoy the island’s quieter spots instead. Overall, it sounds like you'll have a wonderful time, and with a bit of planning, you can still have a relaxing and enjoyable experience during the busy week!