Woke around 7 am, and readied for our day. The park next to our parking spot had a bathroom, so we took advantage. Still need to solve for hot water, but we were able to get some running cold water.
Got to Acadia by 8:30 and mapped out our day with the help of the park ranger. Basically, there are only three places in and around the park a camper of our size can park – on the road by sand beach, off Rt 3 outside the park or the parking lot at Jordan Pond.
We made our way to Sand Beach and enjoyed a ton of amazing hiking. The Beehive was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time and you climb up the mountain (like a beehive) propping yourself up with metal rungs to the next level. The views were spectacular. We tied a view of bowl and Gorham mountain into the hike, as well as a walk along the ocean shore.
From there, we parked on rt 3 and walked the 8 miler from the back of Cadillac all the way up to the peak. John started to have some knee problems at mile 3 of the 4 on the in and out, and waited for me until I made the last mile to the summit. The views were panoramic, and so high. Reminded me of haleakala on Maui. Many people get a “pass” to see sunrise and sunset from this location. Unfortunately, the fan can’t make the drive due to sharp turns, which is the way most people get up there. The temperatures were freezing, and my knees were killing me by the end (just like John) but I am glad we were able to make the hike. Ended up being a 16 mile hike day.
Because we have no idea when we are going to be able to use the water heater, or how much water is in the tank, we found a place right next to where we parked with a big sign that said “HOT SHOWERS”. You literally insert $2 work of quarters in a machine and you rent a shower for 4 minutes. I know, in light of COVID probably not the best idea but we ended up doing it anyway since we hadn’t showered since Sunday. And it felt amazing.
Walked into town and ordered some gluten free vegan pizza (with Daiya cheese, no less). Planned our day for tomorrow. Booked our Harvest Hosts stay in New Hampshire : Mt Washington COG Railway Station.