Carriage Roads Still Closed For Spring Thaw.

Carrie Jones

Apr 08, 2026

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK—Site work that will prepare five miles of the Park Loop Road began this week, according to the National Park Service, April 7.

“From April 6–14 Park Loop Road will be closed to all visitors, including walkers and bikers, from the start of the one-way section to Kebo Street,” the NPS wrote on an April 7 social media post. “Please note, the Loop Road remains closed to vehicles until April 15.”

According to R.F. Jordan Project Manager Devon White, there will also be a detour on the Park Loop Road between Kebo Street and Great Meadow Drive for approximately two months beginning April 13.

“We are contracted to do the Harden Farm Sewer Force Main project which is on Kebo St/ Park Loop/ Great Meadow, along with this box culvert project, and the other 5-mile project on Park Loop Road,” White said.

R.F. Jordan is also the contractor for the Town of Bar Harbor’s utility project on the Cromwell Harbor Road in Bar Harbor.

As of March 19, the carriage roads in the park were closed, an annual event during spring thaw meant to protect the roads from becoming damaged.

“Warmer weather and wet conditions soften the carriage roads and make them susceptible to damage. Walking, bicycling, and riding horses in such conditions can cause ruts and potholes that channel water and exacerbate erosion. The NPS will reopen the carriage roads once the gravel surface dries out and becomes firm enough to prevent damage. Visitors can help us protect the carriage roads for decades to come by respecting this temporary closure,” the NPS announced.

“In the meantime, the NPS encourages visitors to explore Acadia’s hiking trails and Park Loop Road, which remains closed to motor vehicles until April 15. When walking or biking closed sections of the Park Loop Road, exercise caution around closed gates, watch for park vehicles or equipment, and be prepared to encounter lingering snow and ice,” it explained.

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File photos: Bar Harbor Story

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