September 30, 2011

Acadian Reflections

We checked out of the Blackwoods Campground this morning, but had decided yesterday that we were not yet ready to leave Acadia National Park.  Blackwoods Campground was beautiful, and we enjoyed our stay, but we decided to check into a private campground on the other side of the island.  Maybe I’m becoming soft, but three days without electric and water hookups is about my maximum.

Our Campsite at Blackwoods Campground
With the computer, phones, microwave, etc., it’s much more convenient to be able to hook up.  Yes, we have a generator, which we used very sparingly in the park, and, yes, we can charge our electronics as we drive, but it’s just not as convenient.

Having to conserve our fresh water supply can also be trying.  Plus, we wanted a cell phone signal, Wi-Fi or a Mi-Fi signal, cable TV for Tim, showers and a laundry.  The campground in the park had none of those, so I was not able to make blog postings while there.  I prefer to do my postings at night so as not to take time away from daytime activities.

So we moved to the Smuggler’s Den Campground in Southwest Harbor and now have all the comforts of home.  We are spoiled.

In order to truly experience Acadia, you need to get out on the water.  This afternoon we took a cruise on the Sea Princess from Northeast Harbor to Little Cranberry Island.  The weather was perfect as we headed out to sea.  We sailed past Bear Island Lighthouse, saw an osprey nest, took in the views of Cadillac Mountain and docked at Islesford.

Bear Island Lighthouse

A Working Lobster Boat and Lobster Buoy

Islesford Harbor
Islesford is an unspoiled island community with simple Victorian buildings, a general store with yummy gingerbread and a National Park Service museum that unfortunately had closed for the season.

Church in Islesford

Tim In Front Of a Typical Victorian House in Islesford

Too Bad the Museum Was Closed

The Sea Princess Departing the Islesford Harbor
On the return trip we sailed into Somes Sound for wonderful views of Eagle Cliffs.  My favorite part, however, was cruising past the nineteenth century “cottages” along the coastline.  These cottages, which were occupied for only two months during the year, were built by the wealthy “rusticators” who called Mount Desert Island their summer home.  It was these individuals who were responsible for donating the land that created Acadia National Park.

Sailing Away

Along the Shore

I'll Take This Cottage

This One Would Also Do

The Entrance to Somes Sound

Photo Opportunity In Somesville, the Oldest Town on Mount Desert Island
I’ve been amazed at how many Class B RVs I’ve seen during the past week or so.  Especially Sprinter vans.  We’ve been waving at the ones that we pass on the road but have not been able to talk to and compare notes yet with any of the owners.

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