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Kayaking adds a distinct dimension to exploration, allowing us to access areas unreachable by foot and offering opportunities to observe wildlife from a different vantage point. Kayaks were first crafted over 5,000 years ago for this very purpose, enabling Arctic Indigenous peoples to glide quietly across the water to hunt seals, whales, and other marine life. The word “kayak” comes from the Inuit people and translates to “hunter’s boat.” While our trips don’t involve hunting, you’ll have the chance to track marine life and immerse yourself in the natural world.

Kayaking vacations also provide a dynamic way to stay active. Think of hiking and kayaking as cross-training: while hiking primarily engages your lower body, kayaking is a workout for your upper body and core. By incorporating both, you’ll achieve a balanced and rewarding adventure.

Our guided kayaking trips include kayak rentals, paddles, safety gear, and expert guides to ensure your safety and enjoyment. From the lush Great Smoky Mountains to the icy Alaskan coastline, Wildland offers kayaking vacations in diverse regions across the United States. Whether you prefer camping under the stars or returning to a cozy lodge after a day of adventure, these trips cater to a variety of preferences. Here are some of the best places to embark on a kayaking vacation:

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From dense, mist-shrouded forests to panoramic mountain views, the AT challenges hikers with its diverse terrain, unpredictable weather, and often strenuous climbs. For many, it represents a journey of personal transformation, where physical endurance and mental resilience are tested every step of the way. Whether you’re section hiking the Appalachian Trail, thru-hiking it in one go, or simply out for a day hike, the AT offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and push your limits.

History 

The Appalachian Trail (AT) was first conceived in 1921 by Benton MacKaye, a forester and planner, who envisioned a continuous hiking trail through the Appalachian Mountains to provide a retreat into nature and foster a deeper connection with the environment. MacKaye’s idea was initially outlined in an article titled “An Appalachian Trail: A Project in Regional Planning,” which emphasized the importance of recreation and preservation in the region.

In the 1920s and 1930s, Myron Avery, a passionate hiker and organizer, took on the task of turning MacKaye’s vision into reality. Avery played a central role in planning and coordinating the trail’s construction, and by 1937, the first continuous route of the Appalachian Trail was completed. However, the trail continued to evolve and was further finalized in the following decades, with some sections rerouted and adjusted. Section hiking the Appalachian Trail was the original vision, and it wasn’t until 1948 that Earl Shaffer became the first person to thru-hike the AT in a single season.

In the 1960s, the AT gained national recognition, especially after the passage of the National Trails System Act in 1968, which officially designated the trail as one of the country’s first National Scenic Trails. The 1970s saw the rise of thru-hiking, where hikers completed the entire 2,190-mile trail in one continuous journey, contributing to the trail’s growing popularity.

Today, the Appalachian Trail attracts thousands of hikers each year and remains one of the most iconic and challenging long-distance trails in the world. Managed by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the trail continues to be maintained and protected, ensuring that its natural beauty and historical significance are preserved for future generations.

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In this post, I will discuss some of the best sunrise hikes across the country, starting with my favorite, the Cadillac Mountain sunrise in Acadia National Park, Maine.  

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The town of Bar Harbor is an exciting and active hub with a life of its own. It is primarily the popularity of the town that makes the park, Acadia, such a popular destination. The town and park often blend into one another as you traverse from street to street, creating a unique experience for travelers who have never been to this part of the US. Visiting Bar Harbor and Acadia is one of the best National Parks experiences in the country due the accessibility of everything in town nearby; delicious restaurants, diverse shopping, and excellent hotels. But the jewel of the island is the historic Bar Harbor Inn, which sits right on the water. 

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Two visitor centers can be found on Hulls Cove and Thompson Island. With 27 miles of historic motor roads, 158 miles of hiking trails, 45 miles of carriage roads, and an abundance of recreational activities, it is no wonder nature lovers have been flocking here for generations. 

History

Acadia National Park started with the gift of donated lands, galvanized by the Village Improvement Association and the Hancock County Trustees for Public Reservations. These groups noticed the influx of tourists to the area and wanted to create a plan to preserve the environment for years to come. The wealthiest members of these groups purchased the land that was later donated to the United States government.

In 1916 President Wilson signed the Sieur National Monument into creation, beginning with five thousand acres on MDI. In 1919 an act of Congress designated Lafayette National Park. And in 1929, as additional lands were donated on the Schoodic Peninsula, the area and its new boundaries were renamed Acadia National Park. 

Acadia was the first National Park created from private lands donated as a gift to the public. The current land conservation movement wouldn’t exist without it.

Park Layout

The Park is divided into three main regions: Mount Desert Island, the Schoodic Peninsula, and the Isle au Haut. Each region offers its own quaint charm and reason for visiting. Mount Desert Island includes the majority of the park’s acreage and is the easiest to access. The most popular spot on the island is Bar Harbor, boasting beautiful historic lodges, superb seafood and restaurants, and effortless access to nature.

It’s a Victorian-era getaway for affluent artists and those looking to get back to nature. The majority of the park’s major draws are easily accessed from Bar Harbor such as the Scenic Park Loop Road, Cadillac Mountain, whale watching tours, sailing tours, the park’s nature center, and Sand Beach. Bar Harbor is definitely the most popular tourist hub. If basing your trip from there, expect busy trails, packed parking lots, and to plan ahead of time during the high season.

The Schoodic Peninsula offers more seclusion across the bay from Bar Harbor. Choose the hour’s drive from Bar Harbor or take a ferry across. Visitors enjoy the slower pace of life here. The Isle au Haut is even more remote and is only accessible by ferry from Bar Harbor. There are no cars or paved roads, but over 18 miles of panoramic, rugged, and mostly coastal walking trails. 

Geology

Acadia is renowned for the natural beauty of its panoramic views and pink granite mountains. The landscape speaks to a long history of glacial, tectonic and volcanic activity. The story continues today but in a gentler way, as erosion and the elements continue to carve new surroundings. The varied landscape of Acadia morphs through the weathering of granite ridges, the relentless flow of tides, and gusting coastal wind. Nature doesn’t disappoint here, it’s what helps bring visitors back year after year.

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