Island Explorer Transit
Free shuttle buses serving Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island
2025 Operating Season
Service Begins
Late May 2025
Service Ends
Mid-October 2025
Check back in late May for summer schedule and real-time bus tracking.
Where Can I Go?
Plan your summer adventures! Here are popular destinations served by the Island Explorer:
🏔️ Cadillac Mountain
Summit with panoramic views, sunrise viewing
🥾 Jordan Pond House
Historic restaurant, hiking trails, popovers
🏖️ Sand Beach
Ocean swimming, Beach Trail, The Beehive
🌊 Thunder Hole
Dramatic wave action, coastal scenery
🏛️ Sieur de Monts
Nature center, Wild Gardens, Abbe Museum
🏕️ Blackwoods Campground
Camping, hiking access, Otter Cliff
🏘️ Bar Harbor Village
Downtown shops, restaurants, waterfront
🚢 Southwest Harbor
Working harbor, dining, quieter side of island
How to Ride
Find Your Stop
Look for blue Island Explorer signs at stops throughout Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and surrounding towns.
Wave Down the Bus
Signal the driver by waving as the bus approaches. The service is completely free - no ticket or payment required!
Board & Enjoy
All buses have bike racks (first-come, first-served) and are wheelchair accessible. Pull the cord or tell the driver when you want to get off.
Pro Tips
- Buses can fill up during peak times - plan ahead for popular destinations
- Bike racks hold 2 bikes per bus - arrive early if cycling
- Most routes operate 7am-7pm, some run later
- Tell the driver your destination - they can help with connections
Routes
Nearest Stops
Acadia Gateway Center
Acadia Inn
Acadia Mountain
Acadia Sea Shore Campground
Airport
Atlantic Oceanside
Bar Habor Campground
Bar Habor KOA
Bar Habor Motel
Bass Harbor
Transit data provided by Downeast Transportation via Avail InfoPoint
Updated: 11/5/2025, 8:17:11 PM