Sunday, September 3, 2023

Cadillac Mountain Sunrise at Acadia National Park


The Cadillac Mountain sunrise is one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring natural phenomena that you will ever witness. With an incredible view of both land and sea, it may be the greatest sunrise you’ll ever see.  Vehicle reservations are required to drive the Cadillac Summit Road. Our vehicle pass was valid for 5:00 a.m. to enter Cadillac Road. It is a windy, paved 3.5 miles up to the summit.  We had to drive from the RV campground 30 minutes early to arrive at 5:00 a.m. 


It’s important to dress appropriately for sunrise at Cadillac Mountain. Remember to dress in layers so you can stay warm, but also be comfortable.  We did not do our due diligence and were not dressed appropriately for this event. 


At 1,530 feet tall, Cadillac Mountain is the tallest mountain on the eastern seaboard and the tallest mountain in Acadia National Park. Due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis, Cadillac Mountain only receives the first light in the United States between October 7 and March 6
 
  

Your vehicle pass does not mean you have a specific parking spot.  We made sure we arrived early for a 5:55 sunrise. Kathy was much better prepared than I was.  I went back to the truck to get warm and waited till 20-minute before sunrise. 


The moon was still visible, even after sunrise. Cadillac Mountain reservations limit the stress on park rangers and visitors alike. With a reservation system, Cadillac Mountain sunrise is a much more enjoyable experience.


The parking lot was full.  There are 150 park passes and 150 parking spots.  We were extremely lucky that there was no fog, nor rain so it was an unbelievable experience.  So much, we have another pass for another day. 


The following photos were taken on a trike ride later that day.  The harbor is a great place for cruise ships to catch a glimpse of the spectacular sunrise. 


A photo of the harbor. 


Not sure if this is a lighthouse but it's the only building on the island. 


Of course! Any viewpoint facing east is a great place to watch the sunrise and great views of Bar Harbor and its surrounding. This looks like a million-dollar house. We thoroughly enjoyed the sunrise and the trike ride later that day. 

 


 

 

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