Rock Climbing in Acadia National Park

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity. 

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Acadia National Park please refer to the National Park Services and Official State of Maine websites.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

What you get on this adventure:

• An experienced, local rock climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
• A half or full day of rock climbing depending on your chosen itinerary
• All technical equipment

What’s not included:

• Transportation to the climbing site
• Accommodations
• Snacks and food

If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

Acadia NP has plenty of options for beginner climbers as well as the intermediate to advanced climbers. The routes are mostly 5.5 – 5.11. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals, whether you’re here to enjoy a relaxing day climbing, crush climbs, or learn a new skill

No prior experience is necessary. Whether you’ve never donned a harness or you’re a seasoned climber, a guide will help you meet your individual objectives. Above all, your instructor’s number one priority is your safety. As long as you listen to the given instructions, you’ll succeed in completing your climb. 

All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:

• Helmet
• Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
• Ropes
• Rock shoes (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
• Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)

Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:

• Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (13L – 25L bag)
• Extra layers are helpful if it is windy or there is rain in the forecast
• Water bottle
• Food you can eat on-the-go
• Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
• Sunglasses
• Camera — optional

Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and prices:

• The group size for these private climbs are usually between 1–6 people with one guide. 
• Family Rock Climbing is meant for at least one adult parent and children (age 18 or less). The group size is usually between 4-10 people.
• Costs per person decrease as the group grows for private tours, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family. 

Climbing days in Acadia National Park can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:

• If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
• Minors younger than 18 can join the Family Rock Climbing tour, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. There is NO age requirement for climbing. If you can climb a step ladder, you can climb a rock.

If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to Acadia National Park, most people fly into Bar Harbor Municipal Airport just outside of the Park. Bangor International Airport is an hour away and Augusta State Airport is about 2 hours away. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Bar Harbor.

You’ll meet your guide in the morning at the guide shop in Bar Harbor and be outfitted with the proper gear. Once outfitted with gear and waivers filled out, your guide will ride with you to direct you to the climbing site. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.