Mount Desert is a town located on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County, Maine. The area was originally inhabited by the Wabanaki people, who called the island Pemetic, meaning "range of mountains." In 1604, French explorer Samuel de Champlain visited the island and named it "Isles des Monts Desert," which translates to "Island of Barren Mountains." The town was officially incorporated in 1789 and has since become a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Mount Desert has been home to several notable individuals, including philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., who played a significant role in the development of Acadia National Park. Other notable residents have included artists, writers, and conservationists drawn to the area's natural beauty.
According to the US Census Bureau, the population of Mount Desert was 2,053 in 2020. The town's population has remained relatively stable over the years, with a slight increase in recent decades due to the growth of tourism in the area.
Mount Desert is located on Mount Desert Island, which is characterized by its rocky coastline, pristine lakes, and forested mountains. The town is surrounded by Acadia National Park, which covers over 49,000 acres and offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
Tourism is the primary driver of Mount Desert's economy, with visitors flocking to the area to explore Acadia National Park and enjoy the town's charming shops, restaurants, and galleries. The town also has a strong fishing industry, with lobstering being a major source of income for many residents.
Mount Desert has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on conservation and environmental stewardship. The town hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including art shows, music performances, and lectures on local history and ecology.