Jordan Pond Path Trailhead

Jordan Pond Path Trailhead with rugged granite steps, green shrubs, and a sweeping view of Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park.

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 3.3
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 200

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 3.3
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 200
Estimated Time: 1-3 hours
Trail Surface: Mixed: packed dirt, gravel, granite rocks, wooden boardwalks, footbridges
Trail Features: Jordan Pond views
The Bubbles foothills
wooden boardwalks on western section
rocky granite terrain
frequent wildlife sightings
Trail Highlights: Views of Jordan Pond and The Bubbles; wildlife sightings along the shoreline

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Jordan Pond Boat Launch or near the Jordan Pond House
Parking Lot Size: Small lot ~100 spots; large lot ~200 spots; overflow may exist
Parking Fill Time: Full by 8:30 AM on busy days; arrive before 8:00 AM if possible
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Fare-free Island Explorer bus stops at Jordan Pond House

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: 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
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: No formal seasonal closures; winter conditions can be challenging

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: Carry all water; no drinking water along the trail; Jordan Pond is a public water supply
Accessibility: Partially accessible; east side flatter, western side rough with uneven granite and boardwalks

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Slippery rocks and boardwalks when wet
Uneven granite on western section
Minor rock scrambling on west side
Bear presence in park; encounters unlikely
Hazard Details: Slippery surfaces when wet; uneven granite terrain on the west side; occasional rock scrambling; stay alert for bears and crowds
Cell Service: Cell service is unreliable around Jordan Pond; download offline maps before your hike.
Crowd Level: Very crowded, especially on weekends
Peak Crowd Times: Weekend afternoons and peak-season afternoons (summer)
Best Season: Late spring through mid-fall (May–October); fall foliage late Sept–mid-Oct
Best Time To Visit: To avoid crowds on busy weekends, arrive before 8:30 AM. May through October has the most favorable hiking conditions.
Tips Advice: 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.

More details

Park Area: Acadia National Park, Maine
Trail Markers: Well-marked
Shade Level: Mostly shaded by forest canopy
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Year-round access; winter conditions can be challenging
Mud Season: Possible after rain; mud on boardwalk sections
Fall Colors Peak: Late September–mid-October
Bug Season: Insect activity higher in warm months; frogs commonly seen
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.
Family Friendly 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
Review Summary: 3.3-mile loop with a gentle eastern stretch and a rugged western half. The path runs through shaded forest, crosses wooden boardwalks, and includes rocky patches near the pond. Expect crowds and parking pressure in peak season, especially on weekend afternoons. Water on the trail is not available, and Jordan Pond is a protected water source, so swimming is prohibited. Wear sturdy footwear and bring extra water; the pond and The Bubbles beyond rise over the far shore, giving steady, satisfying views.