Acadia National Park, Maine

Down East Maine, there’s a string of islands that make up the oldest National Park east of the Mississippi. Full of pink granite peaks that plummet dramatically to rocky beaches below, these islands are like nothing else on the East Coast.

The majority of the Park lies on Mount Desert Island. The name comes from the barren summits that dot the island. We’re talking views for days (as long as the fog is cooperating). The highest of these summits is Cadillac Mountain. Due to its eastern location and height, this peak is one of the first places in the United States to see the sunrise.

While most of the beaches on the island are rocky, Sand Beach is an exception. The silky smooth sand is the result of shell fragments being slowly ground up by the surf over millions of years.

When you’ve had your fill of the beach, get some exercise on one of the five star hikes in the area. The Great Head Trail offers a moderate 1.4 mile jaunt with wonderful views of the The Beehive—a commanding geological formation that towers over the treetops. If you’re into heights, you can climb The Beehive itself. It’s a strenuous trek involving steep trails, granite steps, and rebar rungs but the view from the top makes it worth it.

Oh, and how could we forget about the carriage roads? These historic gravel roads were finished in 1933 and still exist today. The 45 mile network makes for excellent hiking and biking. The carriage roads are extra gorgeous in fall, when the Park explodes in hues of red, orange, and yellow.

If you’re looking to stay the night, there are two campgrounds in Acadia National Park. Blackwoods campground is reservable while Seawall Campground is first-come, first-served. You can also find lodging in the nearby town of Bar Harbor. Its little shops and “DownEast” charm are a must-see.