Along the banks of the beautiful Long Pond is a large section of land that is still owned by the Rockefeller family. The creators and collaborators for creating the expansive Carriage Road system throughout Acadia National Park. Last year hubby and I enjoyed a beautiful two-hour carriage ride in Crossing Over in Acadia. A wonderful way to explore the balsam fir forests and the well thought out carriage road system.
Beginning our adventure up the carriage road on Long Pond, we were immediately greeted by this beautiful pair of Morgan horses tied to an elegant carriage.
We continued following the road leading up through the well scented Balsam Fir and evergreen forest.
The road overlooks a summer boat house that the Rockefellers have used in the past. It now stands vacant as the land is open to visitors. It was one of the Rockefeller wives who’s idea it was to open up the land to the public and have it accessible to dog owners. Allowing the dogs to be unleashed, this is a popular area for dog people.
While exploring the boat house, and talking with some people, another beautiful set of carriage horses arrived. As it’s been a week since I’ve seen my pony, I saw this couple stop and the woman was wanting to water the horses.
Seizing the opportunity to get some horse time, I quickly jumped in and grabbed the water bucket, filled it and brought it to the team. One just tossed her nose in the bucket and played with the water. Got to love horses. You can certainly bring them to water, but you can’t make them drink.
It was a wonderful outing in stunning scenery between water and forest. Walking on land that the Rockefeller owns made me feel truly special. The forethought this family had in creating and supporting such a beautiful area is truly remarkable.
Hope you enjoyed the adventure on the carriage road with me. Bella
Categories: 2013 Project 365, Acadia, Equitrekking, Foot Prints, Maine, travel
Emily Carter ~ Nature as Art 
You make me feel like I’m there! Thank you! 🙂
That is so sweet. Thank you so very much. Wish you were here.
Very idyllic… 🙂 😉
It truly is Drake. Can you imagine being a Rockefeller?
Yeah I can… ‘hahaha’
I’m feeling me rich as them, just without money… 🙂 🙂 😉
Sure looks like you are having a great time and super pics too!
Thanks Phil. Have to admit. Spent the first week birding, and managed a total of 66 species. But the second week needs to be focused on photography and perhaps some hiking as well. 🙂
What a wonderful idea! Are there carriages for rent, or do you have to bring your own? It looks as if you’re enjoying great weather and good times, even if you do miss your pony.
You can pay to go on a carriage ride at the stables. These two carriages were private owners that brought their horses & carriages to the island to enjoy. Miss my pony, but don’t miss the heat! Thanks Jerry.
I to really loved your pictures, what a wonderful story.
Thank you so much Charlie. I know you would truly enjoy a carriage ride.
Perfect mode of travel.
Isn’t it though. Although we spent some time speaking with the couple. He jokingly said, I can go grab my horse, go on a bareback ride for 45 minutes and come back and you’ll still be tacking up the carriage. LOL !
🙂 Funny Mainers are a hoot got their own language too aye lol
Gorgeous and lovely!! How quaint 😉
It is wonderful that a hobby from the past is still so popular. It is as if it’s part of the lifestyle here.
Wonderful journey!!! Great shots!!!
Thanks Rexlin, it is truly an amazing place to explore.
Looks like a great place!
It really is Bjorn. If you could ever make it here, Acadia/Mount Desert Island should be a must visit for you.
Beautiful carriage trails – nothing quite like them. Fun taking the ride with you!
Can you imagine? I’m sure there is nothing like this anywhere else in the world.
What beautiful scenery! Thankfully, some good rich people leave undisturbed land for others to enjoy. .. =)
Thanks for sharing your story!
You think? The Rockefellers have crazy money and own property in the most beautiful settings. Acadia is truly a unique place with lots of financial support. You should see the trails. They’re awesome!
It’s on my ‘Travel bucket list’ !! =-)
Over 27 years, the junior Rockefeller built a state of the art carriage road system of his own in Acadia, complete with 17 beautiful and individually unique bridges that spanned motor roads, streams and more throughout Acadia.