My First Day in Acadia National Park

I woke up earlier than I meant to, my body was still adjusting to the change in time. I considered turning over and going back to sleep at first, but something seemed different. The cabin's air was chilly and still, and I felt a gentle chill as soon as I went outdoors. I could tell it was going to be a good day because of the gentle, early light in the sky. Shortly after, we left to explore Acadia National Park. The park seemed to come to life as we went farther, every sound, every breeze, every smell of damp dirt and pine. Then we discovered this small, peaceful pond. I was initially taken aback by how lush and untamed it appeared, tall grass gently swaying, yellow pond lilies blossoming like small suns, and lily pads strewn across the river. As I moved closer to take in everything, I noticed a tiny frog sitting motionless like a statue and perfectly blending in. I nearly missed it since I had been focusing on the plants. It seemed like a brief magical moment.

Libby, Kate, Mallory, Emma, and I attempted the hike together... emphasis on 'attempted' for me. Libby and Kate powered ahead like pros, while the rest of us decided to head back down. Honestly, the hike down was a little easier, but after all the slipping and sliding (thanks to my very non-hiking-approved shoes), I was beyond relieved to reach the bottom in one piece. I may not have made it all the way, but hey, I hiked in Acadia, and that totally counts!

After all that wandering, we were starving, so we stopped at a place called Travel 'in Lobster. I had no idea what to get, but the guy working there was super helpful and recommended the chicken bacon ranch wrap and wow, it hit the spot. Just warm, crispy, and flavorful. But the real surprise? I tried lobster for the first time. Kate had some leftovers, and I took a bit out of curiosity. I’m still not totally sure how I feel about it, it was buttery and soft, a little sweet but honestly, so good. I want to come back and give it a proper try next time.

So even though the hike was cut short and my shoes betrayed me, Day 1 was full of surprises, laughter, and firsts. Acadia already feels like a place I’ll keep coming back to.