Schnoodic Peninsula

Question

We are headed to Bar Harbor next week. Family of 6. "Kids" in their 20s. So far the weather is looking ok but Tuesday may rain. I've read about Schnoodic Penninsula & thought that might be a good trip for Tuesday if the weather is not nice but Google Maps basicly says " can't get there from here". How do you get there? By car? Boat? What is there to do? We like hiking, shopping, dining......Worth the effort? We are so excited to go! TIA

Answer

It’s great that you’re planning to explore the Schoodic Peninsula during your trip to Bar Harbor! It’s a wonderful area that offers a different, quieter perspective on the beauty of Acadia National Park. I’ll provide you with details about getting there, things to do, and whether it’s worth the trip, especially if the weather isn’t ideal for other activities.

First, to clear up the confusion from Google Maps: Schoodic Peninsula is located across Frenchman Bay from Bar Harbor, but it’s accessible by car. Google Maps may sometimes be misleading when it says “can't get there from here,” as it might be referring to the difficulty of reaching it by boat from Bar Harbor itself (although there are seasonal ferry services). The good news is you can easily drive there without a problem.

Getting There by Car: The drive to Schoodic Peninsula is about 45 minutes to an hour from Bar Harbor, depending on traffic. To get there, take Route 3 from Bar Harbor to the Schoodic Peninsula. It’s a scenic drive with beautiful views of the coastline and the ocean.
Weather Considerations: Even if it rains, Schoodic Peninsula is worth visiting. Many of the sights are outdoors, but the area is known for its rugged coastlines, so even in the rain, it can be stunning. Plus, the drive is scenic, so it’s a nice way to experience the area even if the weather isn’t perfect.

As for things to do, Schoodic Peninsula is quieter and less crowded than the main part of Acadia, but it has a lot to offer, especially if you enjoy nature and hiking.

Hiking: There are several beautiful hiking trails in the Schoodic section of Acadia National Park. One of the most popular hikes is the Schoodic Head Trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Frazer Point Loop is an easier option with great coastal views. You can explore the Schoodic Loop Road, which is a scenic drive that gives access to various trails and lookout points. Even in rainy weather, hiking here can be a great experience if you're dressed for it!
Dining: While the Schoodic Peninsula is more remote than Bar Harbor, you’ll still find some lovely, cozy dining options. One option is The Schoodic Grill in Winter Harbor, which offers casual dining with local seafood and American dishes. The Pickled Wrinkle in Winter Harbor is another good choice for seafood lovers.
Shopping: Schoodic is a quieter area, but the town of Winter Harbor has some charming shops where you can pick up local crafts and souvenirs. There are also art galleries around the peninsula if you’re interested in exploring the local art scene.

So, is it worth the effort to go to Schoodic Peninsula? Absolutely! Even though it’s a bit farther away from Bar Harbor, Schoodic offers a more peaceful, less touristy experience of Acadia National Park. The scenery is breathtaking, and if the weather turns rainy, it’s still a beautiful area to visit. Plus, you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds than in Bar Harbor, which can make for a more relaxed day. You can easily make a day trip of it, hiking, enjoying the views, and dining in Winter Harbor.

All in all, I would recommend taking the time to visit the Schoodic Peninsula if you have a free day, especially if you're looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Acadia without the busyness of the main park area. It’s a hidden gem that’s definitely worth checking out!

Schnoodic Peninsula

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