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Acadia National Park
Island Explorer is Valuable Tool in
Reducing Congestion
The Island Explorer is a fare-free, seasonal, propane-powered bus system that runs through Acadia National Park and its surrounding gateway communities.
Island Explorer is Valuable Tool in
The Island Explorer is a long-running success, carrying millions of passengers since its inception and helping hikers enjoy car-free trips in Acadia.
Friends of Acadia has been involved with the bus system since the beginning, helping to fund and spearhead the initial test routes and facilitate major gifts from L.L.Bean and other donors to enable continued growth of this innovative transportation system. The Island Explorer receives funding from the state and federal government, as well as grants from L.L.Bean, Friends of Acadia, local towns, businesses, and passenger donations.
As use of the Island Explorer has expanded, additional routes have been developed. The system is expected to grow as Acadia National Park’s transportation plan is implemented. Friends of Acadia is excited to work with partners to facilitate future access to Acadia via public transportation.
Island Explorer Tips
Tips for riding the Island Explorer from Nathaniel Boechat
Find more pointers on riding the Island Explorer: Be an Island Explorer Pro. If you’d like some ideas on neat ways to explore Acadia National Park without a car, we’ve developed a few itineraries to get you started: Explore Acadia by Foot, Bike, and Bus.
“Thank you Island Explorer! We parked at the visitors center and had a quick pleasant ride to some great hiking spots! We avoided crazy traffic and parking stress.We waited no longer than 10 minutes at any spot for pickup. I highly recommend using this transportation while in the park!”
- Julie Stoliker Lebbos, park visitor