Hike Jordan Pond Path

The Jordan Pond Path traverses the shore of Jordan Pond, one of Acadia’s most iconic landscapes. Located in a steep valley carved out by the retreat of glaciers, Jordan Pond is bordered by Penobscot, Pemetic, and two rounded peaks known as the Bubbles. Listen for the calls of common loons, search for signs of beaver activity, and watch the granite cliffs above for nesting peregrine falcons. 

• Distance: 3.3 mile loop

• Terrain: Forested areas with uneven footing on wooden boardwalks, rocks, and footbridges

• Jordan Pond is designated public water supply, so wading and swimming are prohibited at all times. 

Hike Description

Note: The western half of the Jordan Pond Path is significantly more difficult than the eastern half, and may be challenging for families with small children, seniors, and people with mobility impairments.

The full loop consists of the eastern half, a short walk along the coast at the northern end of the pond, and a trek back to the trailhead along the western half (or said route in reverse). Visitors are encouraged to begin with the eastern half of the loop in case they choose to turn around, and the description below follows this order. See the photo gallery below the description for visual references.

At several points along the Jordan Pond Path, it intersects with other trails. Please check the difficulty and elevation profiles of these trails and make sure you are prepared before choosing to hike them.

Eastern Half

• Start at the boat launch for Jordan Pond. Turn right and follow along the east shoreline.

• The path is defined by even terrain and crushed stone underfoot. Use caution on stepping stones and bridges that allow water to flow from the slope above.
   
• About two-thirds of the way along the eastern half of the loop, the Jordan Pond Path intersects with the Bubbles Trail and Jordan Pond Carry. This half of the Bubbles Trail leads to South Bubble and Bubble Rock.
   
• Continue along the path to reach the northern end of the pond, which is marked by the Bubbles Divide Trailhead, as well as the Jordan Pond Buoy and two wooden log bridges slightly further along.

Western Half

• Starting from the wooden bridges, continue along the path into the forest. Shortly after the bridge, the path intersects with the Deer Brook Trail, which crosses the Eagle Lake/Jordan Pond carriage road and eventually intersects with trails leading to Sargent Peak and Penobscot Peak.
   
• The forest then gives way to an open, rocky area consisting of boulders that broke off from the sheer cliffs above. This area, while mostly level, involves stepping stones, uneven footing, and may require some scrambling. Use caution when climbing the rocks.
   
• After the rocks is a raised wooden plank boardwalk through a forested area. Please stay on the path to protect vegetation.
   
• At the end of the plank boardwalk, the path follows a short walk through the forest before coming to a small stone bridge. The gravel trail crossing the bridge is the Eagle Lake/Jordan Pond carriage road. Visitors may turn right after the bridge to continue along the carriage road, which intersects with the Jordan Stream Path further down.
   
• To finish the Jordan Pond Path, turn left after the bridge into the small stone courtyard. Follow the shoreline to return to the Jordan Pond Path Trailhead.

Details

Duration

1-3 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Activity Fee

No

Although the activity is free, a park entrance pass is required for all areas of the park from May 1 through October 31.

Location

Jordan Pond

Where to Begin: The Trailhead

• Jordan Pond Boat Launch

Getting to the Trailhead:

• By car: Starting from ME Route 3, turn off at the Hulls Cove Entrance to Acadia National Park and the Hulls Cove Visitor Center. Follow the Park Loop Road. At 2.8 miles continue straight remaining on the two-way section of the Loop Road following signs for Jordan Pond. Use the North Lot parking area on the right just before the Jordan Pond House. Walk down the boat access to the pond. The Jordan Pond Trail crosses the boat launch. The hike can be taken in either direction.

• By bus: Take the fare-free Island Explorer to Jordan Pond House. Check bus schedule for routes and timetables.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Any Time

Please use a headlamp if you're walking in the dark as the trail surface is uneven.

Accessibility Information

The Jordan Pond Path is not accessible. The trail has uneven footing, stepping stones, and a small bridge.

The Jordan Pond restaurant area and boat launch are accessible. 

View of Jordan Pond in the middle of winter.

NPS Photo/Patrick Kark