Jordan Pond Path Trailhead

Q: Do I need a special permit to hike this trail?

No day-use permit for the trail itself; an Acadia entrance pass is required May 1–October 31.

Q: Is there water available along the trail?

No drinking water along the trail. Carry all necessary water; Jordan Pond is a public water supply with restrictions.

Q: Is the trail stroller-friendly?

Generally family-friendly, but the western portion has uneven granite and boardwalk gaps; strollers may require lifting in places.

Q: When is parking easiest?

Arrive very early; weekends can fill by 8:30 AM; consider weekdays or shoulder seasons to minimize parking stress.

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Overview

About This Trail

Jordan Pond Path Trailhead forms a 3.3-mile loop around Jordan Pond, with a flat eastern stretch and a rugged western half. The route blends shaded forest, wooden boardwalks over wetlands, and rocky sections. Wildlife is common along the way, and the pond-side scenery is quintessential Acadia. Start early on busy days to beat crowds; carry at least 16 ounces of water per person and wear sturdy shoes for mixed terrain. The loop closes with views of The Bubbles rising above the water.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy to Moderate

Trail Highlights

Views of Jordan Pond and The Bubbles; wildlife sightings along the shoreline

Insider Tips

• Hiking counter-clockwise is often recommended for slightly better aesthetics. • Start on the east side if mobility is a concern. • Arrive very early to secure parking; weekdays or outside peak season help. • Island Explorer is your parking saver; consider it to dodge morning congestion. • Strollers may require lifting over gaps on the western portion.

Best Season to Hike

Late spring through mid-fall (May–October); fall foliage late Sept–mid-Oct

Hiking Tips

Carry 2+ liters of water.
Wear closed-toe shoes with good traction.
Start counter-clockwise for easier east-side walking.
Use Island Explorer to reduce parking stress.
Stay alert on wet boardwalks and rocky patches.

Family Info

Generally family-friendly, but western side rugged; strollers may need lifting over gaps

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 3.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 200 ft

Duration: 1-3 hours

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Mixed: packed dirt, gravel, granite rocks, wooden boardwalks, footbridges

Getting There

Trailhead: Jordan Pond Boat Launch or near the Jordan Pond House

Parking: Small lot ~100 spots; large lot ~200 spots; overflow may exist

Fills Up: Full by 8:30 AM on busy days; arrive before 8:00 AM if possible

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Acadia entrance pass required May 1–Oct 31; purchase online via Recreation.gov, at fee machines, or in person; weekly vehicle passes available

Fees: Entrance pass required; Island Explorer is fare-free

Shuttle Available

Fare-free Island Explorer bus stops at Jordan Pond House

Trail Rules

Dogs: Not available

Biking: Not available

Trail Markers: Well-marked

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Carry all water; no drinking water along the trail; Jordan Pond is a public water supply

Shade: Mostly shaded by forest canopy

Cell Service: Cell service is unreliable around Jordan Pond; download offline maps before your hike.

Hazards:

Slippery surfaces when wet; uneven granite terrain on the west side; occasional rock scrambling; stay alert for bears and crowds

Emergency: Not available

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Very crowded, especially on weekends

Peak Times: Weekend afternoons and peak-season afternoons (summer)

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Partially accessible; east side flatter, western side rough with uneven granite and boardwalks

Family Notes:

Generally family-friendly, but western side rugged; strollers may need lifting over gaps

Nearby Facilities

Jordan Pond House restrooms; running water near Jordan Pond House; pit toilets at northern parking area

FAQs

Are bears common on the Jordan Pond Path?

Black bears are present in Acadia, but encounters during this loop are unlikely; stay alert, store food properly, and make noise as you hike.

Do I need a special permit to hike this trail?

Is there water available along the trail?

Is the trail stroller-friendly?

When is parking easiest?

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