United States, North America
Acadia in November
Leaves gone, most businesses closed, and the loop roads close to vehicles on December 1. Little reason to go.
The straight answer
November is a month to think twice about visiting Acadia. Leaves gone, most businesses closed, and the loop roads close to vehicles on December 1. Little reason to go.
- Weather
- Cold and gray, highs near 46F (8C)
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What November is like in Acadia
November is cold and gray, with highs near 46F (8C). The leaves are gone, most businesses in Bar Harbor are closed, and the loop roads close to cars on December 1. Crowds and prices are low, but so is the reward. Many days are windy and wet, and the island feels shut down between seasons.
Most travelers should skip November. Fall color is over and winter sports have not started. If you want quiet with snow, try January or February. For the best Acadia trip, choose September for clear weather or the first half of October for color.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Acadia this month.
Last drives on the loop road
The Park Loop Road stays open to cars until December 1, so you can drive it with almost no traffic.
Sunrise without a reservation
Once summit road reservations end in late October, you can drive up Cadillac for the first sunrise in the country while the road is still open.
Wild surf
Late fall storms can send big waves into Otter Cliff and Thunder Hole. Stay well back from the edge.
What to pack for November
- A waterproof, insulated jacket
- Waterproof boots
- A warm hat and gloves
- Snacks, since many cafes are closed
Our timing tip
If you do come, go early in the month while the loop road is open, and confirm your inn and dinner spots are open before you book.
Book Acadia for November.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in AcadiaOpens a hotel search for Acadia in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in AcadiaWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in AcadiaTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Acadia for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Acadia
Cadillac Mountain sunrise
A vehicle reservation is required to drive the summit road from late May to late October. Or hike up in the dark on the North or South Ridge trails.
Park Loop Road
A 27-mile scenic drive past Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff. Closed to cars from December 1 to mid April.
Jordan Pond and Jordan Pond House
Walk the shoreline loop, then have popovers on the lawn, a tradition since the late 1800s. The restaurant is seasonal.
Carriage roads
Rent bikes in Bar Harbor or walk from Jordan Pond. Some routes close during spring thaw to prevent damage.
Beehive and Precipice trails
Iron-rung cliff climbs for confident hikers. Precipice often closes in spring and summer for nesting peregrine falcons.
Schoodic Peninsula
The park's quieter mainland section, an hour's drive from Bar Harbor, with a loop road and wave-battered granite.
Beat the crowds
- Take the free Island Explorer bus in season instead of hunting for parking at Jordan Pond, Sand Beach, or trailheads.
- Book Cadillac Summit Road reservations as soon as they are released for your dates; sunrise slots go first.
- Explore the Quiet Side around Southwest Harbor and Bass Harbor, or the Schoodic Peninsula, when Bar Harbor is crowded.
- Visit midweek in late September for crisp weather, open businesses, and far fewer people than the October foliage weekends.
Know before you go
- Most of the Park Loop Road and the Cadillac Summit Road close to vehicles from December 1 to April 14; short sections stay open for winter access.
- A vehicle reservation is required to drive the Cadillac Summit Road from late May to late October. Reservations are sold online, not at the park.
- Bar Harbor and the island's restaurants, shops, and inns are largely seasonal, with many opening in May and closing after Columbus Day in October.
- The Island Explorer free bus system runs seasonally, typically from late June into mid October. Check the current schedule.
Acadia in November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Acadia?
November is a month to think twice about visiting Acadia. Leaves gone, most businesses closed, and the loop roads close to vehicles on December 1. Little reason to go.
What is the weather like in Acadia in November?
Cold and gray, highs near 46F (8C).
Is Acadia crowded in November?
November is one of the quieter months in Acadia; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Acadia.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
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