Eagle Lake
Located on Mount Desert Island in Acadia National Park, Eagle Lake attracts hikers, walkers, cyclists, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. While the park is open year-round, summer offers opportunities for exploring the trails and boating, while winter brings cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
The basics
This freshwater lake covers over 400 acres, with a boat launch located at the north end for canoes and other watercraft—you can rent canoes and kayaks from a few spots near the park in Bar Harbor. Fishing is a popular activity and the lake is known to be a spot to catch brook trout, lake trout and landlocked salmon. For those looking for a land-based activity, a 6-mile hiking and biking trail encircles the lake, and leashed dogs are allowed. A stunning view of the lake can be seen from the Cadillac Mountain overlook.
Things to know before you go
- Motorized watercraft under 10 horsepower are allowed on the lake. The boat ramp is located near the parking lot on the north side of the lake.
- The free Island Explorer shuttle can get you to Eagle Lake from various spots in the park. The shuttle is available from late June through mid-October.
- Acadia National Park has year-round entrance fees, and in the summer and fall, timed reservations are required if you wish to visit Cadillac Mountain.
- No swimming—dogs or humans—or paddleboarding is allowed in Eagle Lake.
- The parking lot at Eagle Lake has accessible restrooms. Other than a steep area at the southwest portion of the lake, the carriage roads surrounding the lake are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to get there
Eagle Lake is just a short drive from the town of Bar Harbor and the Hulls Cove Visitor Center. Take Route 233 and you'll reach a parking lot at the Eagle Lake Bridge—the Island Explorer shuttle also stops at this location. Alternatively, you can take the shuttle to the Bubble Pond stop and walk to Eagle Lake from there.
When to get there
The parking lot at Eagle Lake gets very congested during the summer and fall months, so plan to arrive before 8am or after 5pm if you intend to drive into the park. To speed up your entry, purchase your park pass before you arrive and print it out. During the busy season, the Island Explorer shuttle is the best way to access Eagle Lake and avoid the stress of parking.
Other points of interest in Acadia National Park
During most of the year, Acadia's Cadillac Mountain is the first place in the United States to see the sunrise and visitors flock here to see stunning views of Maine's craggy coastline. Follow the park's 27-mile (43.4-kilometer) loop road to take in the varied landscape and stop at Thunder Hole to hear the waves crash into the small cavern. For great beach views, head to Sand Beach and hike the trails nearby.
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