This New England Park Holds One Of The ‘Most Iconic Attractions In The United States’

As the second most visited park in the United States, New Englanders are likely familiar with Acadia National Park. But Fodor’s Shares the exact attraction within the expansive 35,000-acre park that cannot be skipped. If you’re going to make the 4 and a half hour drive all the way up to Acadia, you might as well read on and make sure you’re witnessing the best this magical park has to offer.

The Beehive Loop at Acadia National Park

Not for the faint of heart.

While only 1.5 miles long, The Beehive Loop is not as sweet and innocent of a trail as it might sound. It will certainly sting your lungs as even seasoned hikers joust their way to the top. The 508-elevation gain trail involves some climbing and requires proper hiking shoes and conditions. Do not attempt to hike The Beehive Loop during wet conditions.

After completing the harrowing hike, it’ll quickly become clear why it is one of Fodor’s Travel’s picks for the “13 Most Iconic National Park Attractions in the United States.”

The views at the peak are described as “unforgettable.” You’ll see the Maine coastline and have an aerial view of Acadia. It’s a lovely spot for leaf peeping in the fall.

Catch the start of the American sunrise at Cadillac Mountain

Did you also know that Acadia National Park is the first place the sun rises in America? At 1,530 feet, Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the Northern seaboard, making it the first place the sun rises in America from fall through spring each year.

Other national park recognitions

Acadia is the only National Park in New England, so it naturally is the only representation for our 6 states on the list. Other attractions at national parks recognized by Fodor’s on the list include:

1. Horsetail Falls Firefall in Yosemite National Park, CA
2. Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, MT
3. Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, UT
4. Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park, WY
5. Hyperion Tree in Redwoods National Park, CA
6. Angels Landing in Zion National Park, UT
7. Joshua Trees in Joshua Tree National Park, CA
8. Artists Palette in Death Valley National Park, CA
9. Wildflowers in Mount Rainier National Park, WA
10. The Beehive Loop in Acadia National Park, ME
11. Crater Lake in Crater Lake National Park, OR
12. Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
13. Inspiration Point in Grand Teton National Park, WY