Acadia National Park is characterized by granite cliffs jutting out from the roaring tide on Mount Desert Island off the eastern coast of Maine. The spectacular array of mountains and ocean yields a stunning display of beauty that makes this one of America's most sought-after national parks.

More than 500 kinds of wildflowers grow on the mountains here whose crests are generally bald. Birds and other wildlife flock to the area where they live protected in a pristine and exotically beautiful haven. Acadia is home to one of the earth's most fascinating birds: the peregrine falcon, fastest animal on the planet.

One of the most awesome sights on the island is Schoodic Point. Here, at a level of 400 feet, a panoramic view of the Bay of Fundy and Mount Desert is spread out in artistic display. The Nature Center, too, is a worthy place to visit.

A looped access road is provided to the main attractions ? Sand Beach, composed of shells broken by time and tide; Thunder Hole, a ravine carved out by the ocean waves that produces loud bellows when the tidal conditions are just right; Otter Cliffs, forests, and clean blue lakes. But, most of the park's 3 million tourists take to the trails, rather than their cars, for a more intimate look at nature..

This area is bursting with activity. The island boasts more than 120 miles of hiking trails and 44 miles of paths for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing. There are numerous camp sites available to sleep by the sound of the surf. Canoeing and kayaking can be found on Isle au Haut at the Duck Harbor Campground.

There are countless other activities to enjoy, as well. Mountain climbing, horseback riding, fishing and observing nature are just a few of a long list of things to keep busy in nature's wonderland.

Acadia, the first national park created east of the Mississippi, is 47 miles southeast of Bangor.