Carriage Roads

Step back in time and explore Mount Desert Island along the network of roads that John D. Rockefeller, Jr. created in the early 19th century. 

Discover Mount Desert Island at its most scenic along the Carriage Roads. When John D. Rockefeller, Jr. created them between 1913 and 1940, they were primarily traveled by horse and carriage. Today, traverse them on foot or by bicycle or, depending on the season, even by snowshoes or cross-country skis.

The Carriage Roads snake for 57 miles (91.7 kilometres) around Mount Desert Island. Admire the 17 stone bridges that can be found along the route. At Rockefeller’s request, the stonecutters who created the bridges used a unique technique to make them remarkably rustic.

Explore Acadia National Park via the Carriage Roads. The majority of the roads, 45 miles (72.4 kilometres), lie within Maine’s remarkable national park. Keep watch for the state’s wild residents, such as moose, bear, eagles and more.

Access the Carriage Roads from multiple points on the island, including Jordan Pond, Hulls Cove Visitor Centre and more. Eagle Lake and Bubble Pond provide the most accessible entry points, with wheelchair accessible restrooms and parking.

Over 120 miles (193.1 kilometres) of hiking trails within Acadia National Park connect to or cross over the Carriage Roads. Take a relaxing stroll along the oceanfront or challenge yourself to the steep Precipice Trail. Explore deep forests, high mountain peaks, rocky shorelines and more.

Explore the island as Rockefeller did, by horse-drawn carriage. Catch a ride at Wildwood Stables, located on the Park Loop Road.

Along the Carriage Roads, discover Mount Desert Island as nature intended. Cars aren’t allowed on the roads, giving you a unique opportunity to enjoy your surroundings unspoiled by motor noise. It’s easy to forget that the roads are manmade they are covered with crushed granite quarried from the island and surrounded by native vegetation, such as ferns and blueberry bushes, so they blend right in with their surroundings.

Access Carriage Roads throughout the year, but prepare accordingly for the season. Summers are warm while winters bring lots of snowfall. There are no concessions along the roads, so pack water and snacks. Remember to leave no trace behind and carry out what you carry in.