Hike Pemetic South Ridge

Sitting in between two iconic locations in Acadia National Park, Cadillac Mountain and Jordan Pond, is Pemetic Mountain. This spectacular mountain gives those who summit it panoramic views of Jordan Pond, Eagle Lake, Cadillac Mountain, and the bold coast of Maine stretching towards the horizon in every direction. Enjoy simple dirt trails and granite ridgeline throughout this hike.

 

• Distance: 2.0 miles one-way. 4.0 miles round trip. 
• Terrain: The trail is rocky with uneven footing. Good foot wear is recommended. Rocky granite, short steep sections. Hiking in inclement weather is advised.

Hike Description

• The hike begins at the end of the Jordan Pond North Parking. The trail head is north of the pit toilet. Follow this trail 0.1 miles where it comes upon the Jordan Pond Path. 
• Turn right on Jordan Pond Path and cross the stone walkway. At the end of this walkway there is a stump that has Jordan Pond Path with an arrow carved into it. There is a trail that goes right at this post with no name. Take this trail.
• Follow this trail 0.1 miles where it will run into the Park Loop Road. Safely cross this road and continue walking what is called the Bubble and Jordan Pond Path. Continue another 0.4 miles on this dirt and granite step path until you reach the trail marker for Pemetic South Ridge.
• Ascend the south ridge of Pemetic Mountain for 1.3 miles. This trail involves uneven ground, shorter rock scrambles, and granite ridgeline. It will slowly climb out of the forest exposing dramatic vistas in every direction as the trail approaches the summit at 1248 ft. 
• Return back to Jordan Pond the same way to complete this hike.

Details

Duration

2-3 Hours

The hike is 4 miles round trip. Duration, or how long a hike takes, depends on your pace, how frequently you stop, and the terrain. For an average pace, this hike takes 2 to 3 hours.

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

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

Activity Fee

No

A park entrance pass is required for all areas of the park from May 1 through October 31.

Location

Pemetic Mountain

The Trailhead: Where to Begin

• 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 hike starts on the Jordan Pond Trail to the right.

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

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

The Pemetic South Ridge Trail is not accessible. The trail has uneven footing and many places where scrambling over rocks is required. 

Trail Safety Tips

• Check trail elevation profile or a topographic map before hiking.
• Bring a map, water, snacks, compass, and extra layers for unpredictable changes in weather.
• Reduce the chance of picking up ticks by staying in the center of the trail, and not stepping on soils and away from brush.
• Always do a tick check after visiting the park.
• Closed-toe, good traction shoes recommended because most trail surfaces are very unlevel.
• If hiking before dawn, after dusk, or at night, be prepared with flashlights and headlamps.