Cadillac Mountain

Question

We are planning a trip to Acadia national Park in two weeks. I would like to buy the tickets and need advice on how to do it. Do we do Cadillac Mountain first and then the loop?

We are in our mid 80s. Would it be too difficult to climb up to the top? How far is the walk from the parking lot? I use a cane but I’m able to walk half a mile without resting.

Answer

Visiting Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is one of the highlights of any trip, especially for first-timers. Since you mentioned you are in your mid-80s and use a cane but can walk about half a mile without resting, the good news is that you don’t need to do any strenuous climbing to enjoy the summit.

Here’s some guidance on tickets, accessibility, and planning your visit:

Park Entrance Tickets: As of recent years, Acadia National Park requires a reservation for vehicle entry from late spring through fall. You can purchase your timed entry ticket online through the official Acadia National Park website or via the recreation.gov portal. Tickets typically specify a 1-hour window to enter the park, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Cadillac Mountain Summit: You can drive to the summit. There is a paved parking lot at the top, and from there, the summit overlooks are only a very short walk. The main viewing area is less than 0.1 mile from the parking lot, with mostly paved or well-maintained paths. For someone using a cane, this walk is quite manageable.
Walking Difficulty: There are some small elevation changes and steps in areas near the summit, but nothing strenuous. Even with limited mobility, you should be able to enjoy the views without fatigue. Walking sticks or a cane will help on any slight inclines.

Regarding timing and your route:

It’s often recommended to do Cadillac Mountain early in the day, especially if you want to catch the sunrise. Otherwise, going first thing in the morning helps you avoid busier mid-day traffic on the summit road.
After visiting Cadillac Mountain, you can then explore the Loop Road and scenic stops at Sand Beach, Otter Cliff, Jordan Pond, and other points. This allows for a gentle progression, with the summit first while you’re freshest.
Driving the Loop Road is fully accessible by car, with short, easy walks to viewpoints. Many areas have benches or accessible trails.

Additional tips:

Bring warm layers and a light jacket; it can be windy and cooler at the summit even in mild weather.
Sunrise visits can be chilly, but you’ll have an unforgettable view of Bar Harbor and the surrounding islands.
Plan for some time at the summit to enjoy photos and panoramic views; 15–30 minutes is usually sufficient.
Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon if you want fewer crowds.

In summary, for your mobility level, driving to the summit of Cadillac Mountain is entirely feasible, and the walk from the parking lot to the best viewpoints is short and easy. Planning Cadillac Mountain first and then the Loop Road is a practical approach that allows you to enjoy the park at a comfortable pace.