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Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park
By carlvaleri | November 9, 2009
I came to see the light and returned to explore the natural wonder it protected. The red beacon of Bass Harbor Lighthouse sits atop a short white sturdy structure. The strong profile of the light warns of a rocky outcropping formed by lava flows, made bare by nature’s constant seaward battering. The rocks’ color changes from dark black to a rusty sand color at a distinct point along the rocky cliff.
To view the light and its natural beauty set amongst the multicolored rocks, we had to make our way down a treacherous walkway hopping from one rock to the next as the waves crashed below us. I’d hate to think what would happen if I fell I to the water below pounding against the shallow but steep cliff. The venture was well worth the risk when I viewed through my camera lens what I had only seen on postcards and calenders.
Bar Harbor
The base camp for our adventure was Bar Harbor, a tourist destination visited daily by buses from land and cruise ships from sea. Arriving in late afternoon the town was crawling with tourists. The keeper at Ulicana told us not to worry since most will leave for the night. Thankfully she was correct. An early evening stroll through the now quiet streets made for a more relaxed experience.
The shops have the typical tourist memorabilia of t-shirts, magnets, and coffee mugs. Some stores had unique gifts created by local artisans.
History
The explorer Samuel Champlain first discovered Mount Desert Island in 1604. Originally he named the island Isle des Monts Deserts which translates to Island of Barren Mountains. Prior to Champlain, Native American encampments where scattered throughout the island.
The mountains’ unique slopping curved shapes and much of the surrounding area was originally formed by glaciers carving and smoothing the tops of the large mountains. The glaciers melted and left many rocks and deep lakes in the valleys. As sea levels rose the only Fjord on the eastern seaboard was formed, Somes Sound.
It wasn’t until the 1850’s when the first visitors arrived. They were there to document the beauty of this area through paintings. The orginal visitors were artists from the Hudson River School. Soon afterwards as people viewed the many paintings, news spread of this pristine and awe inspiring rock island with its protected harbors.
The wealthy which included the Rockefellers and Vanderbuilts soon arrived and began building summer cottages. Hotels were also built and as the popularity of the island grew there was much concern over the rapid construction taking place on this serene island.
To protect the lands surrounding their opulent cottages the wealthy residents were able to petition successfully for the first National Park east of the Mississippi. Now millions come to visit this protected land and enjoy the natural beauty.
Variety of Restaurants
Tonight we were in for a treat and a spectacular sunset. Braving the cool weather of late spring we sat at our white circular table under a yellow umbrella to enjoy a Maine lobster boil.
Fresh lobster, locally raised mussels, sweet clams, and succulent scallops came out steaming from large outdoor kettles. Finishing off the meal we enjoyed blueberry pie from locally harvested blueberries. I was thankful we planned a walk through the park the next morning to help burn all those calories.
Scenic Drive
Our ears popped as the car struggled upward towards the top of Mount Cadillac. Numerous switchbacks present amazing views of the coast and valleys below as they gradually grew smaller with each turn.
Thankfully the large bus in front of us had a strong engine. As we reached the precipice of one of Americas most amazing natural wonders, I could not help but think how difficult this journey must have been for the early residents of Mount Desert Island.
The world unfolds below in a 360 degree panoramic surreal view. This is the first place in the US where a person can view the sunrise and if you wait long enough the sunset which are both spectacular.
After the large meal the night before we did not get a chance to view the sun rise as it completes it’s trek across the Atlantic from Europe. The sun’s route reminding me of the first explorers sail across the vast ocean.
Other than Cadillac Mountain the must sees along the 27 miles of paved road open to cars and bicycles include Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliffs, and Jordan Pond.
Lighthouses
The sturdy little lighthouse at Bass Harbor is one of the most picturesque lighthouses you will see in the United States. Two other lighthouses are on Baker Island and Bear Island and they offer the best view from the water. You will want to board one of the lighthouse tours located in downtown Bar Harbor.
Family Fun or Peaceful Getaway
Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park offer a wide variety of activities and scenery. From a quaint village full of tourist to the serene thick woods and beatiful landscape there is something for everyone here. Remember to pack a sweater because the nights in Maine can be chilly. If you enjoy this adventure as much as I did, you will have many fond memories of Acadia.
Bar Harbor Information:
Lighthouses In The Acadia Region
Topics: Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, Bed & Breakfast, Lighthouse, Maine | No Comments »