Acadia N.P. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse Photography
An iconic location for daytime and Milky Way photography.
Maine to Canada Travel Photography Article
Travel the coast of Maine and Canada.
Bass Harbor Lighthouse Milky Way Photography Location
The lighthouse is said to be the fifth-most-visited site in Acadia National Park, but its parking lot holds just about two dozen vehicles. The lighthouse is located directly at the rim of a cliff, so the only views you can get from the parking lot level are side views. You are so close to the structure that taking a decent picture without a super-wide-angle lens is impossible. Unless you did what we did and climbed down the rocks to get the shot, it is not easy to get down on these rocks and quite dangerous.
Back in the parking lot, you can also go to your right (west) and stand directly beside the lighthouse and Bass Harbor Head Bell; obey any posted signs. To view the light, walk down a gravel path from the eastern edge of the Lighthouse parking lot, following a fence line through the woods toward the wooden platform. You can get some shots from the platform without going down on the rock, but the view from the rocks is much better. Our picture with the sun’s glare is from the rocks.
This also provides an excellent up-close look at the lighthouse towers, which are visible only from the outside. It takes you close to the lighthouse tower and viewing area, where you will get an excellent viewing position for panoramic views of the harbor and islands out in the distance.
BASS HARBOR HEAD LIGHTHOUSE PHOTOS
The island’s Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is among the most recognized and photographed lighthouses in the United States. There is a lack of parking at sunset, so go early. With an annual population of 180,000 visitors, Bass Harbor Head Light is the most visited site on the western portion of Mount Desert Island. It is the fifth busiest site within Acadia National Park, trailing only Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, Sandy Beach, and Thunder Hole. Among about 80 lighthouses throughout Maine, Bass Harbor Head Light Station is one of only three operated by Acadia National Park, including the two others on Baker Island and Bear Island.
HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH BASS HARBOR HEAD LIGHTHOUSE
The view from the rocks shooting towards the Milky Way at 10:30 p.m. in June during the new moon phase, when the moon is below the horizon. (Top left) The week before the new moon is the best week to go to Acadia during the Milky Way months, from March to October. Be sure to understand what time the Milky Way rises each month by reading our Milky Way photography information page.
Our sensor was dirty on the day of the trip, and we needed to go back and edit that spot on the daytime image. Always carry an emergency sensor cleaning kit with you. Most importantly, ensure you know how to use it so you don’t damage your sensor. We always take our camera in for cleaning, but in emergencies, when you’re far from a camera store, it’s good to have the kit. We didn’t use it then, as you can see. We now carry a sensor cleaning kit with us at all times. We took these photos back in 2011.
First, clean the filter on your lens to test whether your sensor is dirty. Then, take a sheet of white paper, switch to manual mode, and take multiple shots. See if the dot appears in the same spot in your image. If it does, your sensor is dirty.
OPTIMAL TIME TO VISIT
We don’t recommend going during winter, as roads may be closed. Our preferred seasons are Spring and Fall, when there are fewer crowds. We also suggest visiting on a midweek to avoid larger crowds. The Milky Way moves during the Milky Way season from March to October, so it may not be near the lighthouse when you photograph it. You can see that it’s in the opposite direction from when we were there in June.
HOW LONG TO PHOTOGRAPH
You can set aside two full days to explore every nook and cranny of this expansive park and its surrounding areas. From the sprawling forests to the winding paths that lead to hidden beauty, there is much to discover in this nature haven. For the lighthouse, plan on spending an hour or more if you plan to climb down to the rocks to get far enough away for pictures, like we did.
WHAT PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR TO BRING
We suggest you bring a robust and versatile camera setup to capture the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife fully. Essential items include a DSLR or mirrorless camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses, a sturdy tripod for long exposures, and multiple memory cards.
A wide-angle lens is essential for getting a full view of the lighthouse. If you go on a boat tour, you’re more likely to see wildlife, and a zoom lens is a must. We’ve seen visitors here and there, fascinated by the sight of deer grazing in the early dawn or the flight of eagles soaring majestically overhead, but not very often.
So, the most important things are your tripod, ND filters for long exposure and milky water effects, and all your gear for Milky Way photography, including a red headlamp, flashlight, a two-second timer for the Milky Way, and a zoom lens for your boat tour.
WHAT ELSE TO BRING
Hiking boots, bug spray, summer hats, gloves, and a scarf are essential for a comfortable experience during colder months. Remember, this is Maine. It gets pretty chilly at night, even in the spring and fall.
A good-quality backpack that can handle your gear and personal necessities will help on your long treks.
Remember to bring water and some high-energy snacks to keep yourself fueled while exploring the vast park. There is a restaurant at Jordan Pond that you can plan to shoot around lunch or dinner time.
A field guide or map of the park could also help navigate between the popular spots and hidden gems the park offers. Lastly, bring binoculars for bird watching or observing far-off wildlife.
WHAT TO PHOTOGRAPH
The National Park is renowned for sunrise and sunset views, making it an idyllic spot. The breathtaking beauty of Cadillac Mountain, being the tallest along the North Atlantic seaboard, is a highlight, especially at dawn when it is the first place in the U.S. to greet the morning sun. Still, it’s just a tourist overlook without the dramatic colors of sunrise and sunset. A slow, gradual climb to the summit rewards an unparalleled view where the sun’s first rays paint vibrant colors across the sky and sea. Later in the day, capture the dappled sunlight as it filters down, bathing the forest floor in an ethereal glow, but plan on going when the sky fills with colors.
Remember Jordan Pond; its sparkling waters often ripple with the movement of beavers and otters that call it home.
Rock Beach is a favorite spot for Milky Way photography. Be sure to remember the Bass Harbor Lighthouse for both sunset and the Milky Way.
SEE ALL OF OUR MAINE HOT SPOTS TO VIEW INDIVIDUAL LOCATIONS.
A lot of Acadian National Park is easily accessible. Rock Beach has a set of stairs that make it difficult to get down to the beach. The Bass Harbor Lighthouse is challenging to shoot. There are slippery rocks and off-trail rocks to climb down to get to a spot to create a good shot. You can view it from a distance without climbing down, but you won’t get a good shot or be able to see the icon view.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Acadia National Park may bring encounters with creatures such as foxes, white-tailed deer, and an occasional eagle. Don’t look for moose here. They are on the other side of the state. There are massive opportunities for dynamic images here,
HOW BUSY DOES IT GET?
As one of the top ten most visited national parks, Acadia sees its fair share of visitors, particularly during the summer when the weather is at its finest. We like Spring and Fall to avoid the crowds, and there are more ways to avoid the crush of people. Opt for early mornings or late afternoons, when most visitors are eating breakfast or dinner. That’s when the park is quiet. Also, consider exploring some of the less-trodden paths. Even though they might not lead you to the most popular attractions, they can offer you a peaceful sojourn away from the hustle and bustle, letting you bask in the serene beauty of the park’s less frequented corners.
MILKY WAY PHOTOGRAPHY
This is one of the best places to view the Milky Way. The sky here is incredibly dark, and the Milky Way shines brilliantly overhead at certain times during certain months. Be sure to see our Milky Way Photography Page to learn when the Milky Way is visible.
NEARBY PHOTOGRAPHY
If this wasn’t enough, you can take advantage of the rare opportunity to photograph puffins up close near Cutler, Maine. The largest puffin colony on the East Coast is not far north of Acadia National Park. Book your summer tours as early as March. They fill up fast!
HOW TO GET THERE
BY CAR: To reach Mount Desert Island from the south, follow I-95 north to Augusta, Maine, and then take Route 3 east to Ellsworth. Another option is to continue on I-95 north towards Bangor, then take Route 1A east to Ellsworth. From there, continue on Route 3 until reaching Mount Desert Island.
BY AIR: Travelers can take direct flights to Mount Desert Island from Boston’s Logan Airport, which is only 10 miles away from the Hancock County Airport. National airlines are available for those flying into Bangor International Airport, just an hour from the island. Car rental services are offered at both airports for convenience.
WHERE TO STAY
There are numerous options throughout the park. We will be featuring Hotels, Motels and Cabins here. Please email us to advertise for only $129.00 for the entire year!! You can scroll down for information on where to stay.
PLACES TO STAY
If you’re still looking for somewhere to stay directly next to the park, try searching for cabins in the area beyond Acadia, near Ellsworth, Northeast Harbor, or Winter Harbor. The National Park is open year-round, though many facilities inside and near the park are closed from October to May.
Acadia National Park Private Jet Photo Tours
A photography tour of a lifetime! Seats are filling quickly. Private jet plus a 5-star hotel on the ocean.
ACADIA NATIONAL PARK INFO
Entrance Fees: All park visitors must pay an entrance fee upon entry from May–October. Passes are non-transferable. Credit cards are accepted at all fee collection areas.
Private Vehicle: $25, valid for 7 days
Admits private, non-commercial vehicles (15 passenger capacity or less) and all occupants. Buy your pass online!
If the vehicle pass is purchased, no other pass is necessary.
Motorcycle: $20, valid for 7 days
Admits one or two passengers on a private, non-commercial motorcycle. Buy your pass online!
Per Person: $12 valid for 7 days
It admits one individual without a car (bicyclist, hiker, pedestrian). Youths 15 and under are admitted free of charge. Buy your pass online!
HOTELS
This spot is open for advertising. Put your hotel here.
Place your ad here. Billed at $99 per year. Details
CAMPING
Online Reservation Tips:
- You will need to make an account before you can reserve your campsite.
- Reservations are available two months in advance.
- If you’re unable to reserve a particular campsite, it might not be available, or you may be checking dates outside the 60-day rolling window.
There is no backcountry camping, “out-of-bounds” camping, overnight parking, or winter camping allowed anywhere in the park. There are many types of accommodations in nearby towns.
Blackwoods Campground – This campground is on the east side of Mount Desert Island in proximity to popular locations along the Park Loop Road.
Seawall Campground is located on the west side of Mount Desert Island, about 4 miles (6 km) south of Southwest Harbor on Maine Route 102A.
Schoodic Woods Campground is the only campground on the mainland section of the park.
Duck Harbor Campground is located on Isle au Haut and is only accessible by mailboat from the mainland.
FOOD & DINING
Add Your Restaurant Here for $99 a year. See the loaded listing on our advertising page.
Eat-A-Pita/Cafe2 – 326 Main Street Southwest Harbor, ME 04679
WEATHER
How to Photograph Acadia National Park
Part 1: GEAR
Before we delve into the pristine beauty of Acadia National Park, let’s get acquainted with the gear that will be your confidant throughout this adventure. As we venture through the rugged cliffs and lush forests, having a reliable camera with a wide-angle lens at your disposal will be crucial.
Part 2: PREPARATION
Now that we’re well-equipped, let’s focus on preparing for the journey ahead. Familiarize yourself with the local weather patterns of Acadia National Park. A sudden downpour can be a photographer’s worst nightmare; hence, keep a keen eye on the forecast.
Part 3: WEATHER PROOFING JUST IN CASE
Essential weatherproof gear: Rain covers, lens protectors, and sealed bags can be lifesavers in the face of unexpected showers. Also, remember to carry spare batteries and memory cards—you don’t want to run out of power while photographing a breathtakingly beautiful landscape or a wildlife moment.
Part 4: MASTERING LIGHTING
Once you’ve secured your gear from the elements, it’s time to focus on the most critical component of any photograph—lighting. Understanding its nuances can make or break an image. Do some research to see what time of day you should go. Photography tours know this, but you may have to visit a spot to determine when to return for optimal lighting.
Part 5: THE TOP PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS
In Acadia National Park, every nook and cranny is a picturesque postcard. However, some iconic landmarks deserve special attention.
CADILLAC MOUNTAIN
It is the tallest peak on the United States East Coast and offers a panoramic view of Acadia and the surrounding areas. You can capture awe-inspiring images of sunrise or sunset, the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean, or a foggy morning enveloping the park in mystery. We are not a fan of overlooking photos, so we suggest going here when you expect to see the skies filled with color and clouds that reflect the color.
Next on the list is Jordan Pond. The crystal-clear water perfectly mirrors the surrounding mountains and sky, creating an ethereal double
dance of light and shadow on this sandy stage as the sun travels across the sky. The morning light bathes the desert in a soft, golden glow, transforming the patterns on the sand into delicate works of art. As the day progresses, the harsh noon sun will bring out the stark contrast between the peaks and troughs of each.
THUNDER HOLE
As the day matures into twilight, Thunder Hole transforms. The lowering sun throws long, dramatic, mysterious shadows across the rugged granite. If you’re lucky, the sky will turn into a canvas of breathtaking hues – oranges, purples, and reds – setting the scene for photographs that rival any painted masterpiece.
BASS HARBOR HEAD LIGHTHOUSE
The iconic structure silhouetted against the backdrop of an ocean sunset is a sight to behold. The salty wind, the crashing waves, and the rugged coastline add an adventurous element to your photographs. Despite its popularity, there’s a serene solitude about the place at dusk, when the lighthouse
begins to glow, casting a warm, welcoming light on the surrounding rocks and water. The sky changes from hues of fiery oranges and soft pinks to deep indigo speckled with stars. It’s a dance of colors that mesmerizes every onlooker.
SAND BEACH ACADIA
Though your next destination may sound commonplace, Sand Beach possesses a charm that’s anything but ordinary. For photographers, this coastline stretch offers many diverse scenes to capture. In the morning, the sea often shrouds the beach in a light, misty fog that softens the surrounding cliffs’ harsh edges and heightens the place’s ethereal beauty.
As the sun climbs higher in the sky, it illuminates the land. The sea turns from a cloudy grey to a shimmering blue, often taking on hues of turquoise and emerald depending on the sunlight’s angle. With its unusual blend of sand and smooth pebbles, the coastline becomes a kaleidoscope of colors as the day progresses. Each tiny detail is highlighted, from the fragments of seashell to the delicate footprints left behind by scurrying little critters.
ROCK BEACH
An out-of-the-ordinary landscape, Rock Beach is a haven for photographers who thrive on capturing the rawness of nature. The beach’s smooth pebbles have stood the test of time, weathered by years of smashing waves and gusty winds. As the day breaks, the sunrise plays hide-and-seek with the horizon, first appearing as a hint of gold peeking from beneath the deep navy sky. It slowly but surely engulfs the scenery in its light, bathing the pebbles in a golden glow.
The sight of millions of tiny rocks shimmering under the morning sun is truly a spectacle. The day’s progression brings about a fascinating transformation in the landscape. The azure waters against the multi-hued rocks create a dramatic spectacle. During this time, you can capture the unique spectacle of waves crashing against these ancient stones, creating a mesmerizing dance of water and rock. As the sun begins to descend, casting long shadows.
If there is one thing we will never forget, it is this unique sound of the rocks going in and out with the waves and the sound of tumbling stones echoing through the beach.
ACADIA NATIONAL PARK INFORMATION CENTERS
Six visitor information centers are located within or near the park, including the main visitor center in Hulls Cove (northwest of Bar Harbor), a nature center at Sieur des Monts (south of Bar Harbor), a visitor center on Thompson Island (along the road leading into Mount Desert Island), another visitor information center in Village Green in Bar Harbor, the historic Museum at Islesford on Little Cranberry Island, and the Rockefeller Welcome Center on Schoodic Peninsula.
THE PARK’S LOOP
After looping around Cadillac Mountain, the Acadia Scenic Park Loop Road leads down to the Maine coastline at Sand Beach. The Park Loop Road is a classic scenic drive featuring views of the ocean, lakeside beauty, and dramatic rock formations. Acadia has miles of historic highways, with the best-known being the 27-mile scenic Park Loop Road, which links the region’s lakes, mountains, and coastlines. There are over 130 miles of hiking trails to explore on foot and 45 miles of carriage roads to ride your bike.
Unique attractions for Milky Way photography include sandy beaches, rock beaches, thunder holes, and dark skies. Magnificent rocks can be found at Otter Cliff, making it a top-ten photography location worldwide.
Acadia National Park preserves the natural beauty of rocky headlands, including the highest mountains along the Maine coastline. As the National Park Service puts it, it is the crown jewel of the North Atlantic Coast, and for good reason; it holds the highest peak along the entire Eastern Seaboard, offering a viewpoint that provides the first glimpse of sunshine when it rises above the horizon to illuminate the U.S. mainland. Acadia is unlike anywhere else, with miles of shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean.
