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 The Sieur
de Monts Spring plays a significant role in the history of Acadia National Park. George B. Dorr, a private citizen who lived in the
late 1800's and early 1900's, was a major contributor to the park's
conception and creation through his vision and passion to preserve
and protect the natural beauty of Mount
Desert Island. Sieur de Monts Spring got its name from Pierre Du Gua de Monts, an early 1600's Lieutenant Governor of New France who was commissioned by King Henry IV in 1603. The King directed Sieur de Monts “to establish the name, power, and authority of the King of France; to summon the natives to a knowledge of the Christian religion; to people, cultivate, and settle the said lands; to make explorations and especially to seek out mines of precious metals.” At that time, Lieutenant Governor Sieur de Monts had authority over all of North America between the 40th and 46th parallels (from Montreal to present day Philadelphia). As the first superintendent of Acadia, George B. Dorr built the Spring House over the spring in 1909 and carved “The Sweet Waters of Acadia” on a nearby rock. Today, this location has come to symbolize the enthusiasm and contributions of Dorr and other early twentieth century citizens in the creation and preservation of Acadia National Park. The spring is open year round and is located at the Sieur de Monts Spring, 2 miles south of Bar Harbor near the intersection of the Park Loop Road and Route 3 on Mount Desert Island. There is no entrance fee required. When you first drive into the parking area, it may not seem like much. But trust me, when you get out and start your walk on the pathways, a magical world unfolds which not only includes the Wild Gardens of Acadia, but the Abbe Museum and the Nature Center (located in the brown building). The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus has a pickup and drop-off point here. Acadia National Park Hiking Trails |