Eagle Lake
A serene 6-mile loop around a stunning lake, perfect for biking, walking, and spotting majestic bald eagles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Eagle Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 6-mile loop around a stunning lake, perfect for biking, walking, and spotting majestic bald eagles.
"Eagle Lake is absolutely gorgeous and easy to hike, bike, walk, or run around. The views are stunning."
🚶♀️ 6-Mile Loop is a Must
The 6-mile carriage road loop around Eagle Lake is perfect for a scenic walk or bike ride.
🦅 Spotting Eagles
Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles; sightings are common around the lake.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Carriage Road Loop
Around Eagle Lake
A scenic 6-mile loop perfect for walking, cycling, or e-biking with stunning lake and mountain views.
Eagle Watching
Various points around the lake
Keep an eye out for majestic bald eagles soaring above the water and surrounding trees.
Kayaking & Canoeing
Eagle Lake waters
Paddle across the refreshingly clean waters and enjoy a unique perspective of the mountainous landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Access & Passes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 6-Mile Loop is a Must
The 6-mile carriage road loop around Eagle Lake is perfect for a scenic walk or bike ride.
🦅 Spotting Eagles
Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles; sightings are common around the lake.
🚲 E-bike Friendly
E-bikes are a great way to enjoy the carriage roads around Eagle Lake.
🚗 Parking Lots Available
Utilize the parking lots off the state road for access without a park pass.
Acadia National Park Tips?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ 6-Mile Loop is a Must
The 6-mile carriage road loop around Eagle Lake is perfect for a scenic walk or bike ride.
🦅 Spotting Eagles
Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles; sightings are common around the lake.
🚲 E-bike Friendly
E-bikes are a great way to enjoy the carriage roads around Eagle Lake.
🚗 Parking Lots Available
Utilize the parking lots off the state road for access without a park pass.
🥶 Frozen Lake Walks
In winter, enjoy a unique walk across the frozen surface of Eagle Lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Eagle Lake for its stunning natural beauty and the enjoyable 6-mile carriage road loop, perfect for biking and walking. The opportunity to spot bald eagles adds a magical element to the experience. While generally accessible, some note that park passes are required for full access to Acadia's amenities.
"Such a great place to unwind and enjoy nature. The water is refreshingly clean and a beautiful color. We had a wonderful time riding our e-bikes around the lake on the carriage roads."
J. S.
"Eagle Lake is absolutely gorgeous and easy to hike, bike, walk, or run around. The views are stunning throughout the trail. I parked at the Carriage Road parking lot, and it was exactly a 6.0-mile loop around the lake back to the parking area. I highly recommend this spot to anyone looking to enjoy nature and get a great workout.
Date of post: July 09, 2025"
Nat Pichikala
"This is a pretty large lake inside the Acadia National Park. Overall this is a beautiful lake with the best view being from the east end of the lake just after you leave the parking lot. In our case we were bike riding the 5.8 mile carriage road loop trail around the lake. Overall the bike ride was relatively easy with exception of a really long uphill grade on the west side of the lake. Still it was a great and relatively short ride. Even better there are two parking lots you can use that are off the State road so you can do this ride without getting a national park pass for Acadia."
Rick Adkins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Eagle Lake is located within Acadia National Park. Access is typically via Park Loop Road or the carriage roads. If you're not entering Acadia National Park, there are parking lots accessible from the state road that allow access to the carriage roads around the lake.
Yes, some parking areas and sections of the carriage roads around Eagle Lake are accessible without a park pass, though many prime viewpoints and trailheads are within the park boundaries.
The 6-mile carriage road loop is ideal for walking, cycling, or e-biking. Kayaking and canoeing are also popular on the lake itself.
The Island Explorer shuttle service operates within Acadia National Park and stops at various points, including near Eagle Lake during its operating season. Check their schedule for specific routes and dates.
You can drive to parking areas near Eagle Lake, some of which are accessible from the state road and others via the park's internal roads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While some access points are outside the park, many of the most popular areas and trailheads for Eagle Lake are within Acadia National Park, requiring a park entrance pass.
Eagle Lake is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round. However, facilities and specific park access may have seasonal hours.
Entry to Eagle Lake itself is free. However, if you are accessing it via Acadia National Park, you will need to purchase a park entrance pass.
No advance booking is required for Eagle Lake itself. Park passes for Acadia National Park can be purchased online in advance or at park entrance stations.
Standard park regulations apply, including leash laws for pets and rules against disturbing wildlife. Check Acadia National Park's official website for any specific advisories.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include walking, hiking, cycling, e-biking on the carriage roads, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and wildlife viewing, especially eagles.
The main trail is a 6-mile carriage road loop around the lake, offering relatively easy terrain with stunning views. Some sections can have uphill grades.
Yes, Eagle Lake is a popular spot for fishing. Remember to check for any specific regulations or license requirements.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in Eagle Lake due to its role as a water source and park regulations.
Bald eagles are frequently spotted here. You might also see various bird species, deer, and other small mammals.
📸 📸 Photography
The east end of the lake offers particularly beautiful views. The entire carriage road loop provides numerous scenic vantage points.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is restricted in Acadia National Park, including areas around Eagle Lake. Always check current FAA and park regulations before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views.
Weather can change quickly, so be prepared for varying conditions. The sun can be bright, so polarizing filters can be useful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting bikes or e-bikes for an extra adventure. The relatively flat terrain of the carriage roads makes it manageable for most children. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and check the weather forecast as conditions can change quickly in Acadia.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and E-bikers
E-bikes are permitted and are a great option for covering more ground or tackling any uphill sections with ease. Many visitors highlight the enjoyment of e-biking around the lake. Remember to check if your rental bike is suitable for gravel paths and be mindful of other users on the carriage roads.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
While the carriage roads are the primary walking path, there are also opportunities for more rugged hiking in the broader Acadia National Park area surrounding the lake. For a simple, scenic walk, the loop is hard to beat.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Carriage Roads
These roads are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, offering picturesque bridges and overlooks. The Carriage Road parking lot is a popular starting point for exploring the loop. Even if you don't have a national park pass, you can access these roads from parking areas off the state road, making it an accessible option for many.
Pro Tip: Consider renting a bike or e-bike in a nearby town to fully enjoy the carriage road experience. The gentle grades make it accessible for most fitness levels, and the lack of car traffic allows for a truly immersive nature experience.
Wildlife Encounters at Eagle Lake
Beyond eagles, the lake and its surrounding woodlands are teeming with other wildlife. Birdwatchers will delight in the variety of species that frequent the area. You might also spot deer, various waterfowl, and smaller mammals as you explore the trails or paddle on the water. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid feeding them to maintain their natural behaviors.
Best viewing times for wildlife are typically early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active. The tranquility of the lake during these hours also enhances the chances of spotting creatures.
Activities on the Water
Fishing is another popular pastime on Eagle Lake. Anglers can cast their lines in hopes of catching various freshwater species. Ensure you are aware of and comply with all local fishing regulations and licensing requirements before you begin.
While the lake is beautiful, swimming is generally not permitted due to its role as a water source and park regulations. Focus on the joys of paddling and fishing to fully appreciate the aquatic environment of Eagle Lake.
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