The official book of Maine's treasured and New England's only national park, on the occasion of the park's centennial. Created in 1916, and encompassing 45,000 acres on two islands and a mainland peninsula on the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park is a jewel of granite mountains, filigreed coastlines, unique cultural resources, dazzling night skies, and precious communities of plant and animal life. Drawing more than 2.5 million visitors each year, Acadia is one of the ten most popular national parks in the United States. The only illustrated book officially published with the Friends of Acadia, this stunning portfolio of photographs reveals Acadia's diverse habitats and brings home the contrasts of pounding ocean and silent coves, bald mountain summits and deep forest valleys, as never before seen.The essays convey the unseen story of Acadia: its history as a national park; the critical role of the founding families in its creation; the past and current importance of private stewardship; and its status as a unique park forged in a particular time and place in history. Acadia National Park celebrates the essence of this special place and offers a cherished journey into its past, present, and future.