MAINE - Acadia/Bar Harbor/Down East

This national park is simply put, an amazing experience. The oldest national park on the east coast, visitors will enjoy a variety of wonders including the unusual geological formations, nature and wildlife, scheduled events, scenic drives, hiking, biking and boat cruises. Don't forget to look for the puffins, North America's answer to the penguin. Fishing sites abound, with approximately 20 lakes and ponds to choose from. Public camping is available at two locations, and there are fees for camping and for entering the park. For hikers, there are more than 200 miles of trails.

Several trails lead to the top of Blue Hill. At 940 feet, the peak offers views of Penobscot Bay, Blue Hill Harbor and Acadia National Park.

This park offers visitors a bevy of activities: canoeing, fishing, a scenic drive, hiking trails, picnic areas, and cross-country and snowmobile trails in the winter. There is a public campsite available. Open May 15-Oct. 15.

Visitors to Eastport will enjoy walking past the dozens of 18th and 19th century structures, including many restored sea captains' homes.

Pebbly beach on Smith Cove of Penobscot Bay, no lifeguard, launch for canoes and kayaks, open pit toilets, picnic area, walking trails, parking. No admission or parking fees.

This nature preserve offers trails and roads for wildlife observation. In the wintertime, the unplowed roads become cross-country ski trails. Fishing and deer hunting are permitted.

Visitors to this park will enjoy hiking trails, splendid views (with possibilities for whale watching), and picnic areas. The eastern most point of land and lighthouse in the United States are adjacent to the park. Open May 15-Oct. 15.

Accessible by a bridge from the mainland, this was originally the summer home for President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Now a 2,600-acre park, visitors can see the home or hike on more than eight miles of trails.

Visitors will enjoy hiking along the ocean, in the woods, and out on the bluff.