About Mount Desert

The Town of Mount Desert is one of four towns that make up beautiful Mount Desert Island. First settled in 1761, it is the second largest town on the island with a year-round population of approximately 2,100. The town has six villages, each with a distinct personality and flavor. Surrounded by Acadia National Park, the town offers spectacular views, quiet coves, bustling harbors, beaches, restaurants, lodging, and unique shops.

Pretty Marsh

Located on the western edge of Mount Desert Island, this rural, out of the way village has some of the most beautiful coves and hills on the island. Bartletts Landing, the village’s public landing and boat launch provides space for local fisherman and a launching area for canoes and kayaks. The Pretty Marsh picnic area overlooks Blue Hill Bay.

Somesville

Somesville, the oldest village on Mount Desert Island, was founded in 1761. This quiet village is located at the northern end of Somes Sound, a natural fjard. A picturesque bridge sits directly adjacent to the original selectmen’s building (1790), now the home of the Mount Desert Island Historical Society Museum. Here you will also find an art gallery, a summer theatre, professional offices and the village library.

Hall Quarry

Hall Quarry is known for the excellent quality granite it supplied for the construction of buildings all along the eastern seaboard. This popular vacation spot is located in the center of the island with easy access to the national park beach and boat launch on Echo Lake.

Seal Harbor

Seal Harbor is a quiet, primarily residential, village in the southeastern part of town. Its beautiful beach, picturesque harbor, and village green are directly adjacent to the southernmost entrance to Acadia National Park. Trails and walking paths with spectacular views begin near the beach and run north into the park. The small village center has shops, a restaurant, and lodging.

Northeast Harbor

Northeast Harbor is known for its beautiful, protected harbor and historic Main Street. A famous summer oasis for prosperous summer residents, the village is also home to long-established local families and fishermen and serves as the center for local government. Interesting boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants are popular destinations, while the beautiful Asticou Azalea Garden, Asticou Terraces, and the Thuya Garden are located just outside the village.

Otter Creek

Otter Creek is completely surrounded by Acadia National Park. Funky and artsy, its landscapes have inspired artists since the 19th century. Trails lead from the village to the top of Cadillac Mountain and along abandoned quarry trails and provide both summer and winter access to the park. Otter Creek has a market, camping support facilities, a seasonal restaurant and an active community hall.