Ubers?

Question

We’re heading to Acadia next week and have reservations at Blackwoods campground. I didn’t realize the island shuttles don’t start running until later in June. We have an RV that we had hoped to just leave parked for the week. We are planning to rent e-bikes for a day and I guess we’re now leaning toward renting a GEM for a few days too, but are Ubers generally available in and around the park to get us from the campground to Bar Harbor? Any other transportation ideas?

Answer

It’s great that you're planning a trip to Acadia! The area is beautiful and there are many options for transportation, though it can be a bit tricky in terms of relying on ride-sharing services like Uber. Here’s what you should know:

While Ubers are available in Bar Harbor, they are not as plentiful or as easy to get in more remote areas like Blackwoods Campground, especially outside the peak summer season. It’s generally more reliable to arrange for transportation ahead of time if you’re planning on using ride-sharing, but there are some alternatives that can make getting around easier:

GEM Car Rentals: Renting a GEM (Global Electric Motorcar) is a popular option in Acadia and Bar Harbor, especially for getting around the park and town. These electric cars are small and eco-friendly, perfect for cruising the park roads and downtown area. They’re a great choice if you want flexibility and the ability to easily park without worrying about finding space for an RV. Be sure to book in advance, as they can get rented out during peak times.
E-bikes: Renting e-bikes is another excellent choice, especially for exploring Acadia’s carriage roads. This gives you a lot of flexibility for getting around, and the bike paths and roads in the park are scenic and accessible. If you're renting for a day, you can easily bike to Bar Harbor or other parts of the island. The added benefit is that e-bikes can help you cover more ground without tiring out, especially if you plan to go long distances.
Taxi Services: While Ubers may be sparse, traditional taxi services are more established on Mount Desert Island. You can pre-arrange a taxi ride or call for one when you need it. Check with your campground or the local visitor center for recommendations on reliable taxi services in the area.
Island Explorer Shuttle (after June): While the shuttle service starts running later in June, the Island Explorer bus system is a great way to get around Acadia once it’s operating. These buses are free, and they go to many of the park's most popular spots, including Jordan Pond, Cadillac Mountain, and Sand Beach. While it won’t be available during your stay, you can plan ahead for future trips to take advantage of this convenient service.
Renting a Car or RV: If you prefer to have more control over your transportation, renting a car for a few days might be a good option. This way, you can leave your RV parked at Blackwoods Campground and use a car for trips into Bar Harbor or further around the island. Renting a car is easy and affordable in Bar Harbor, especially if you want to explore more remote parts of the island.

Overall, while Uber availability in and around Acadia may be limited, there are still plenty of options to get around, especially if you’re using e-bikes, GEM cars, or taxis. Renting a GEM car for a few days might be your best bet for getting to and from Bar Harbor and exploring the park at your own pace. Have a great time at Acadia National Park!

Ubers?

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