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Thunder Hole
Thunder Hole
Acadia National Park
view websiteEagle Lake Road & Mcfarland Hi
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
207-288-3338
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Scenic Landmark
Park
Thunder Hole Description
Take some sizeable Atlantic waves, put them on a collision course with a carved-out hollow in some rocky cliffs, and presto, you've got a mix of danger, drama, and the chance to get soaked. Catch Thunder Hole on a stormy day or any time when the waves are wild, and you may see the surf spray up to 40 feet overhead. Take the Ocean Path in either direction for awesome views and easy walking.
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: Although the guardrails are comforting, take the shore path to avoid parental anxiety about the high cliffs.
Planning Notes
- Dress warmly. Wear comfortable shoes, bring an extra layer or two, and expect cool, windy weather -- even in summer.
- Avoid mid- to late afternoon. Crowds are at their largest from 2:00 to 5:00.
- Calm water is less impressive. Visit on a stormy day or during an incoming tide.
Just the Facts
Hours: This section of the Park Loop Road is open year-round.
Fees: $10 - $20
Recommended Time: Less than 1 hour
Reviews of Thunder Hole
Timing is everything
By forestgolfer May 29, 2008 | Kittery, Maine
What we loved:
The view & the pounding waves.
What we didn't love:
When we came a second time & the stairs were all ripped up.
Read the guide books on this one, arrive shortly before high tide begins to come in & be prepared to wait. You really have to get the magic combination of big surf & good action against the rocks. We visit almost every year. br/ A little way down the loop road is a beach made entirely of rock, if you can climb the steep stairs it is worth the relaxing moments to listen to the waves crash & receed, the sound is amazing against all these rounded rocks that have been smoothed by the surf. Read More
awesome rocks
By HenryandAnisMommy November 18, 2007 | Son: Age 6, Daughter: Age 12
What we loved:
Loved the views and the easy hike
What we didn't love:
Hard to keep young kids from dangerous slips
Being a California girl, I just loved Thunder Hole. It seemed so East coast to me with the gorgeous combination of rocks and wild surf. The older kids in our group seemed to like it the best, but everyone was glad we went. Read More
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