Thunder Hole in Acadia

Thunder Hole is the ideal spot in Acadia National Park to experience the powerful roar of the sea crashing against Maine's rocky shores. On calm days, you might wonder what all the excitement is about, but just wait until the waves pick up — you'll soon understand. Thunder Hole is a naturally carved small inlet in the rocks. At the far end of this inlet lies a small cavern. When the waves rush in, the trapped air is forced out by the pressure, creating a sound reminiscent of a clap or distant thunder. Water can spray as high as 40 feet, accompanied by a tremendous roar. It's no wonder the place is called Thunder Hole.

Thunder Hole GPS for Parking: Latitude 44.321011; Longitude -68.189330

Accessibility: Upper level viewing area, restrooms and parking is wheelchair accessible.

Thunder Hole in Acadia during early March

Wonderful Views!

This spot provides gorgeous panoramic views of Otter Cliff on the right, Schoodic Peninsula in the far distance, and Sand Beach and Great Head to the left. Thunder Hole is a great place to stand and watch or sit and relax, taking in the spectacular sights, sounds and smells. One of the pleasant things that greets you upon arrival, depending upon the season, is the aroma of roses. Next to the steps leading to the ocean, are large groupings of wild roses or rose hips. Rose hips are a potent source of vitamin C, at least until they become dry or are processed. Note: The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus stops here about every half hour during normal seasonal daytime hours. The last bus leaves at 6:58 P.M. Check their schedule to verify.

Next To Ocean Path

A scenic 3-mile (or 3.8 km) round-trip walking trail known as Ocean Path at the Sand Beach upper parking lot, directly to the north. It follows along the eastern coastline of Mount Desert Island, heading south past Thunder Hole, and continues until reaching Otter Cliff to the south. Renowned for its unmatched coastal beauty, this walk is highly recommended along the eastern seaboard of the continental United States. Running parallel to Ocean Path, the Park Loop Road follows the same direction but is one-way on this section of the island. If needed, there is an exit and entrance road on the right just before reaching Otter Cliff that will take you back to Bar Harbor or south toward Seal Harbor.

Use Caution

When there is a storm nearby, even when it is many miles out-to-sea, exercise extreme caution. The rough seas combined with rogue waves can be very dangerous when near the shoreline, even when 100 feet away. Always remain vigilant and stay informed by listening to the radio and checking with the National Park Service. Always make sure that children are supervised and close-at-hand. Rogue waves can and do happen as it did tragically in 2009 when Hurricane Bill was over 300 miles out-to sea. The photo to the right shows one of these monster waves.

Hulls Cove Visitor Center GPS: Latitude 44.409286; Longitude -68.247501

Thunder, Roar or Whimper

One of the most recognized landmarks associated with Acadia National Park is "Thunder Hole." Hearing this name for the first time often prompts a series of questions, and perhaps even a chuckle or two. Over time, the name comes to embody the formidable power of the sea along the coast. For professional photographers and artists, it is one of the best locations to capture a wide array of visually striking images on most days. Having visited this spot over several decades, I've witnessed everything from a serene twilight calm to extremely rough and unpredictable seas stirred up by hurricanes. Many visitors have come when the tides were not favorable or the ocean was relatively calm, leaving them to wonder what all the fuss was about. Believe me, such moments do occur. Even mighty lions rest quietly after a meal.