Written by Stephen Ondich
Dogs in Acadia?
Acadia National Park is a great place to bring your dogs. On my first trip, I almost felt guilty for leaving Rose at home. In general, Maine is a very dog friendly state so it should not be surprising that its most famous park and tons of area businesses are willing to accommodate well behaved canines. The carriage roads are waiting for you and your pet. Of course, there are rules and limitations but responsible dog owners will have no trouble abiding by them.
Park Rules for Pets
- Keep your dog on a leash of no longer than 6′ or 2m. Acadia National Park is stunning 47,000 acres. The thought of your pet happily running off-leash almost puts a smile on my face and I don’t even know your dog. However, Acadia is not your back yard and Federal regulations are in place to keep your pet safe, reduce conflicts between visitors & pets, limit exposure to disease and protect wildlife. Park wildlife roam free and if your dog is loose it can have fatal consequences. In October of 2018, off leash dogs were responsible for an otter death. As tempting as it may be to find a quiet spot and let your four legged friend explore, please resist that urge for the safety of your pet, the park’s wildlife and that of your fellow visitors. I love dogs but not all people do. In fact, some people are scared of dogs in the same way that you may be scared of heights. Just because your dog is really friendly, does not mean it should be off leash.
- Keep your pet with you at all times. Do not tie up your dog’s leash to a tree and wander off. More importantly, do not leave your dog unattended in a car. Temperatures can rise fast with the potential to injure or kill your pet. Maine has legislation in place to allow passers by to break car windows with impunity if a pet is in danger inside. Did I mention that Maine loves dogs?
- Service dogs are allowed pretty much everywhere. The park’s posted rpet ules apply to non-service animals only.
- Clean up after your pet. This is just common courtesy and sense. Park rangers have their hands full with other issues. They do not have time to clean up after your pet, nor does anyone else. Letting nature take its course is not cool.
Park Areas Off Limits to dogs
There are not many areas on Mount Desert Island where you cannot take your canine friends . Generally speaking, only the trails with ladders are off-limits to pets. In fact, it’s easier to write a list of off-limits places than to list the pet friendly places. Accordingly, here are the places to stay away from if you have pets. It should go without saying that dogs don’t belong on the ladder rungs of Precipice Trail but I’m sure at some point someone has tried it…sigh. Please enjoy these park attractions sans dog.
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Beech Cliffs Trail
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Jordan Cliffs Trail
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All lakes
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Sand Beach – from Summer to Fall only.
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Duck Harbor Campground
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Public buildings
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Ranger-led programs
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Wild Gardens of Acadia
3 Easy Dog Hikes, 2 miles or less
- Compass Harbor Trial – This well marked trail off Route 3 runs just under 1 mile.
- Cadillac Summit Loop Trail – At a distance of .3 miles, this trail is short with stunning views. Expect crowds here.
- Wonderland Trail – Take this 1.4 mile trail down to the ocean and check out the tidepools (at low tide, of course.) Wonderland Trail is located just off 102A.
Other things to keep in mind when hiking with your dog
Bring plenty of water for both yourself and your pet. A collapsible bowl or dog-friendly water bottle works great. Don’t let your dog drink water from Acadia’s streams or ponds. Despite its pristine appearance, the water could contain parasites.
Wear appropriate attire for the type of hike you are doing. Doggy backpacks work well if you need help carrying supplies. Be mindful of how much your dog is carrying, however.
Don’t set off on an epic hike with your dog unless you are both up to the task. Countless hikers get caught up in the moment and attempt overly ambitious hikes. Know your limits and use common sense. Don’t set yourself up for a Park Service search and rescue mission.
May to September is tick season in Maine. Tick bourne diseases such as Lyme Disease can be serious or fatal. Use a good tick repellent and walk in the middle of the paths away from the foliage when you can. Be sure to examine your dog (and yourself) for ticks before leaving the park.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to bring a small first aid kit on your hike. Bring bandages, gauze, tweezers and cortisone cream, If you or your dog is injured you’ll be glad to have a few basic first aid items on hand.
Dog Friendly Businesses in Bar Harbor
Once you are done hiking and head into town, you’ll have plenty of places to bring your canine companion. Here is a partial list of recommended stops:
- Coffee Hound – Great coffee and drinks. They will even make your pooch a special drink, if you ask.
- Bark Harbor – Cute dog friendly pet store with friendly staff. They have a list of all of the dog friendly businesses in Bar Harbor. Ask for a copy.
- Stewman’s Lobster Pound-Great service with an awesome view of the water. A wonderful place for the Maine lobster experience with your pet.
- West St Cafe – Great place to eat across from the harbor. Close by all of the tourist boat departures.
- Downeast Windjammer Cruises – Nice people and good live music. Very informative crew.
- Island Explorer Buses – Catch a free ride around town.
- Cottage St Pub – This popular destination fills up early. Tessa is a master of her craft. Absolutely amazing amazing drinks.
- Poor Boys Gourmet Restaurant -Casual restaurant with plenty of pasta options.
- Side Street Cafe – Good location with great service and even better atmosphere. Awesome lobster rolls!
- Looking Glass Restaurant -Great views and excellent breakfast options.
- Little Long Pond – This privately owned (but open to the public) piece of land is managed by the Rockefeller family. This is the only leash free area inside of Acadia National Park. Dogs are free to swim here, as well. Keep your eye out for the gate at Bracey Cove as there is no road sign marking this location
- Wildwood Stables Carriage Tours – Tour the park in style with your pet.
Heidi
6 Mar 2019I was considering taking my dog to Maine this Summer and you have sealed the deal! I am thrilled to hear that dogs arewelcome in Acadia as well. Thanks for the info.
Stephen
6 Mar 2019Maine is a very dog friendly state. You’ll have no problem in Acadia, as long as you’re aware of the rules.
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