July trip

Question

Group of 5 adults 55-65 traveling to Maine in July. We are arriving in Portland, picking up rental car and staying 3 nights at Gouldsboro Airbnb. Then heading to Boston for a few days and back to Portland for a couple days. I would love recommendations on hikes we should do-easy to moderate difficulty. Any waterfalls at that time of year? Other suggestions greatly appreciated

Answer

Your July trip to Maine sounds like it's going to be a fantastic adventure! Maine is known for its rugged coastline, beautiful national parks, and scenic hikes, so you’ll have plenty to explore. Since you’re looking for easy to moderate hikes and some suggestions for waterfalls and other activities, I’ve put together a guide based on your travel itinerary. Here’s a mix of options that should be enjoyable for your group:

Hikes Around Acadia National Park:

Jordan Pond Path – This is a flat, easy 3.3-mile loop around Jordan Pond, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the iconic Bubbles (the two rounded peaks). It’s perfect for a leisurely walk and offers some great photo opportunities, especially with the clear waters of the pond reflecting the mountains. There’s also the Jordan Pond House nearby if you want to stop for a famous popover and tea after the hike.
Ocean Path – This is an easy, 4-mile round-trip hike along the coast. The trail follows the shoreline with great views of the Atlantic Ocean and stops at several scenic points like Thunder Hole and Sand Beach. It’s fairly flat and a great introduction to the coastal beauty of Acadia.
Beehive Trail – If your group is up for a bit more of a challenge (but still moderate), the Beehive Trail offers a fun, somewhat steep ascent with iron rungs to help along the way. The hike is about 1.5 miles and gives fantastic views of the park and surrounding area. It’s a shorter hike but with some elevation, so it’s best for those in good physical condition, but still manageable for most.
Bubble Rock Trail – This easy-to-moderate 1.5-mile loop leads to the famous Bubble Rock, a giant boulder perched on the edge of the mountain. It provides sweeping views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding landscape. This is a fairly short hike with moderate elevation gain, so it’s perfect if you want a quick but rewarding hike.

Waterfalls in Acadia:

Hadlock Falls – This waterfall is located off the Hadlock Pond Trail in Acadia. The trail is about 2 miles round-trip, and while the hike itself is fairly moderate, the falls are a peaceful and beautiful spot to visit. It’s an especially good choice in July when the water flow is consistent, and the surrounding forest provides a nice cooling effect.
Sieur de Monts Spring and Little Long Pond – While not a dramatic waterfall, Sieur de Monts Spring and the nearby area have lovely cascading waters that can be a peaceful stop during your visit to the park. It's an easy walk around the pond and through the forest, and you’ll get to experience the beauty of the park without too much effort.

Other Suggestions in Maine (and on your way to Boston):

Bar Harbor – Since you’re staying in Gouldsboro, you’re close to Bar Harbor, a charming town with great dining, shopping, and plenty of waterfront activities. You can take a harbor tour or simply walk around the town and enjoy its unique shops and restaurants.
Drive the Park Loop Road – This 27-mile loop road through Acadia National Park offers some of the park’s best scenic views, with multiple pull-offs for photos. You can drive up to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point in Acadia, for stunning panoramic views of the islands and coastline. If you don’t want to hike, driving the loop is an excellent way to see the park’s highlights without exerting too much energy.
Camden Hills State Park – On your way down to Boston, consider stopping at Camden Hills State Park, where you’ll find a moderate 5-mile hike up Mount Battie. The hike offers beautiful views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay at the top. The park is also a great place to stop for a picnic, and it’s only about a 1.5-hour drive from Acadia National Park.
Portland Head Light – If you’re passing through Portland on your way to Boston, make sure to stop at the famous Portland Head Light lighthouse. It’s one of Maine’s most photographed landmarks and has a great park and walking area for a quick, easy stroll.

Accommodation Tips: Family-Friendly Options Near Acadia:

Bar Harbor Inn & Spa – Located right on the water, this is a great option for families with spacious rooms and easy access to downtown Bar Harbor. It offers beautiful views of Frenchman Bay and is close to Acadia’s main attractions.
Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center – A family-friendly property with a range of accommodations, including suites and cottages, making it ideal for groups. It’s a short drive to Acadia and offers great views of the harbor.
Gouldsboro Area Accommodations – Since you’re staying in Gouldsboro, there are a few good Airbnb or local rental options in the area. These often offer more space and the ability to cook your own meals, making them great for a longer stay with a group.

Your July trip to Maine sounds like it will be a wonderful experience with plenty of scenic drives, easy hikes, and beautiful natural spots to explore. Be sure to take your time to enjoy the coast and the park, and if you’re looking for more hiking options, Acadia has something for everyone!

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