Audio

Access Wayside: Explore the Roads Ahead

Acadia National Park

Transcript

At the entrance to the Eagle Lake carriage roads, a wayside exhibit features an informational panel entitled "Explore the Roads Ahead," angled atop a stone pedestal. At an intersection up ahead, a weathered signpost points to sites in each direction. Near the exhibit, the carriage road leads under an arch in a stone bridge.

Text identifies the two options: "Acadia's lush forests, immense lakes, and intimate ponds house a diversity of life - and the areas around Eagle Lake and Witch Hole Pond are perfect places to see creatures close up."

The 5.8 mile loop around Eagle Lake is on the left. Text accompanies a tranquil scene showing tall spikey rushes standing tall in the calm water next to the shore. A hazy sky softens the view of mountains in the distance. "Circle one of Acadia's largest lakes while enjoying the sights and sounds of the forest. This loop has steeper grades than the Witch Hole Pond loop. After passing under Eagle Lake Bridge, head straight ahead for a longer, more gradual climb or turn left for a shorter, steeper ascent. This loop provides access to several hiking trails and other carriage roads for those wishing to continue their explorations."

The 5.5 mile loop around Witch Hole Pond is on the right. Text accompanies a scene featuring an arched stone bridge over water dotted with autumn leaves. On shore, layers of rock resemble uneven stepping stones. "View the historic Duck Brook Bridge and glimpse the distant ocean while exploring wetland habitats around Witch Hole Pond. This loop has varying terrain, but hills are not as steep and long as those on the Eagle Lake loop. This route provides access to Hulls Cove Visitor Center. It does not link to hiking trails."

Photographs between the two scenes show six types of wildlife:

-a bald eagle spreading its feathery wings.

-a dragonfly with two pairs of narrow delicate wings.

-a furry brown beaver swimming with its head above water.

-a loon with a black head and black-and-white patterned back.

-a Northern green frog with folded hind legs and webbed feet.

-and a spotted, torpedo-shaped Brook trout.

Description

An audio description is provided for " Explore the Roads Ahead," an interpretive wayside at Acadia National Park.

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