Bar Island - Bar Harbor, Maine

by Jennifer
(New Jersey)

I have something to contribute to your "Recommended Tourist Attractions in Maine".

Last summer I made my first trip DownEast and visited Bar Harbor, Maine - what an awesome place! Although I had read that the weather in Bar Harbor is typically very comfortable during the summer, I managed to hit it during record breaking temperatures. So, in my quest to find things to do that would not deplete all of my energies, the motel manager suggested this awesome respite.

There is a small island offshore, called Bar Island. During low tide you can walk to it, or drive, if you have an all terrain vehicle. I choose to walk with the dozens of other people who were looking for a way to cool down.

At the end of the gravel and sand path (wear appropriate shoes!) were wonderful views (and picture taking opportunities) back toward the town of Bar Harbor, with Mount Desert Island as a backdrop.

Bar Island, part of Acadia National Park, also offers hiking along the "Bar Island Trail". I was a bit too hot to hike, maybe another time. However, I am told that the hike is very enjoyable and a wonderful way to escape the sometimes crowded town of Bar Harbor.

But beware, from what I hear, you only have one hour before and one hour after the low tide to make the trip to and from Bar Island. Although a local boat goes out later in the day to check for stranded visitors, I wouldn't count on it. Keep your eyes on the time!

To reach the island, head to the north side of West Street (a short distance from the Bar Harbor Pier and docks) and look for Bridge Street. Walk to the end, and if a low tide is approaching, or present, you won't miss the flats.