United States, North America
Acadia in October
Peak foliage usually around the first half of the month. Leaf peepers and fall cruise ships crowd Bar Harbor; many businesses close after Columbus Day.
The straight answer
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Acadia. Peak foliage usually around the first half of the month. Leaf peepers and fall cruise ships crowd Bar Harbor; many businesses close after Columbus Day.
- Weather
- Cool, highs near 57F (14C), fall color
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What October is like in Acadia
October is fall color season. Highs are near 57F (14C), nights are cold, and the foliage usually peaks in the first half of the month, with maples, birches and oaks glowing against the granite and sea. Leaf peepers and fall cruise ships crowd Bar Harbor, prices stay high, and many businesses close after Columbus Day.
October suits leaf lovers, photographers and hikers who like cool air. Come in the first half of the month for peak color and open services. After Columbus Day, the island gets quiet and choices shrink. If you want clear skies with fewer crowds, late September is a strong alternative.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Acadia this month.
Peak fall foliage
Acadia's color against the ocean is one of New England's best shows, usually peaking in the first half of October.
First sunrise in the country
From early October, Cadillac Mountain catches the first sunrise in the United States. Reservations are needed to drive the summit road until late October.
Color on the carriage roads
Biking or walking the car-free carriage roads under turning leaves is a quiet way to see the season.
What to pack for October
- A warm jacket, hat and gloves for cold sunrises
- Layers for mild afternoons
- A rain shell for fall storms
- Bike gear if you plan to ride the carriage roads
Our timing tip
Come in the first half of October, book lodging months ahead, and check which restaurants close after Columbus Day.
Book Acadia for October.
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- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in AcadiaOpens a hotel search for Acadia in October, 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 October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in October
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 October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Acadia?
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Acadia. Peak foliage usually around the first half of the month. Leaf peepers and fall cruise ships crowd Bar Harbor; many businesses close after Columbus Day.
What is the weather like in Acadia in October?
Cool, highs near 57F (14C), fall color.
Is Acadia crowded in October?
Acadia is busy in October, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
What is happening in Acadia in October?
New England fall foliage (late september through mid october, peak usually the first half of october).
Keep planning Acadia.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
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