The One Thing to Do in Maine Before the End of the Year

Did you know there’s a place in Maine where you can be among the first to see the winter sun rise over the continental United States? It’s Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park, located on Mount Desert Island. Having a front-row seat to the first sunrise is magical, which is why it’s a quintessential Maine experience you need to check off your bucket list before the year ends. Here’s what prospective travelers need to know. 

Catching the First Sunrise

From October through March, the summit of Cadillac Mountain (1,530 feet above sea level) is the first place in the United States to see the sunrise. Visitors flock to the rocky summit in the quiet pre-dawn hours, bundled against the Maine chill, to watch the night sky transform with hues of pinks, oranges, and golds. Eventually, they’ll be touched with the first rays of sunlight in the country—an experience that’s one-of-a-kind and memorable.

What The Adventure Entails 

This adventure calls for an early wake-up call, but that’s part of the charm! Set your alarm for the wee hours of the morning, dress in layers, and bring a warm beverage as you drive or hike up the mountain. 

If the sky is clear, the sunrise will bring views of Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and the Atlantic Ocean bathed in soft morning light. Each sunrise feels like a private show, especially in the winter months when the crowds are thinner and the air feels crisper. 

How to Reach the Summit 

The winding 3.5-mile Cadillac Summit Road remains open to vehicles until December 1 (weather permitting). If you’re planning your trip before this date, driving is the easiest option—and as a bonus, you’ll be treated to scenic views when you drive back down in the daylight. Note that you must make reservations to drive Cadillac Summit Road from mid-May to mid-October, according to the National Park Service. 

Once the road closes (usually December 1st through mid-April), the only way up is on foot. The most popular hiking route is the South Ridge Trail, which is a challenging seven miles round-trip with 1,581 feet of elevation gain. Hiking in the pre-dawn hours requires a headlamp or flashlight, warm layers, and proper gear such as microspikes and trekking poles.

You can also hike up the 3.5-mile Cadillac Summit Road, which is easier but still lengthy. Once the vehicle road is closed, it becomes a path for pedestrians and cross-country skiers.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

If you’re planning to watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, keep these tips in mind. 

• Check the Timing: Sunrise times shift daily, so plan your arrival using an accurate weather app.
• Arrive Early: Get there at least 20 to 30 minutes before sunrise to settle in and find your perfect spot.
• Think About Parking: Reservations are required for vehicles only from mid-May to mid-October. If you visit in November or December, you don’t need one (as long as the road is open).
• Dress Warmly: The exposed summit is extremely cold and windy, especially before dawn.
• Bring Proper Gear: A headlamp, trekking poles, and microspikes are recommended if hiking.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.