Acadia National Park

Island Explorer

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.

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 Routes, Maps & Timetables

The Island Explorer features bus routes linking hotels, inns, and campgrounds with destinations in Acadia National Park and neighboring village centers. Clean propane-powered vehicles offer Mount Desert Island visitors and residents free transportation to hiking trails, carriage roads, island beaches, and in-town shops and restaurants. Please note that routes and capacity have changed in 2021 due to the COVID pandemic.

Visit Island Explorer Website

Island Explorer Tips

Video with tips on how to ride Island Explorer from Nathaniel Boechat

How You Can Help

Want to help improve the visitor experience and natural environment at Acadia? Consider a car-free vacation to the park. There are many options for getting to and around Acadia without using your car.

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