North Bubble Trailhead, Acadia National Park

North Bubble Trailhead overlook in Acadia National Park, rocky ledges and boulders framing a valley lake and forested hills beneath a bright blue sky.

From the Bubbles Divide Trailhead, chase North Bubble on a 1.5-mile out-and-back that climbs about 400 feet. Expect rocky, exposed sections; a loop combining both peaks can push the outing to 2-3 hours. This hike is moderate—steady footing, water, and caution on ledges. High reward for the effort.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 1.5
Route Type: Out-and-back (with loop option)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 400

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 1.5
Route Type: Out-and-back (with loop option)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 400
Estimated Time: 60-90 minutes for the core 1.5-mile hike; 2-3 hours if looping or summiting both bubbles
Trail Surface: Forest path, rocky sections, exposed granite ledges, wide stairs
Trail Features: Forest path
Rocky sections
Exposed granite ledges
Wide granite stairs
Bubble Rock on South Bubble
Jordan Pond views
Trail Highlights: Jordan Pond views from both summits; Bubble Rock on South Bubble

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Bubbles Divide Trailhead, off Park Loop Road
Parking Lot Size: Small
Parking Fill Time: Full by mid-morning during peak season
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Island Explorer seasonal shuttle (mid-June to October) serves as an alternative if parking is full

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: Acadia National Park entrance pass required year-round; purchase online or at park entrance stations
Fees: Standard entrance pass fees apply ($20-$35)
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Winter and early spring snow can render trail impassable; mud season; check conditions before heading out.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: No reliable water sources on the trail. Carry all necessary water; 1-2 liters recommended.
Accessibility: Mixed; rocky, some stairs; not fully accessible

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Slippery rocks after rain
Exposed granite ledges on North Bubble
Steep, rocky footing in sections
Crowding on busy days
Hazard Details: Slippery rocks after rain require careful footing; exposed ledges increase fall risk; loose rock on some sections; crowding can hamper footing.
Cell Service: Limited or patchy; plan accordingly
Crowd Level: High, especially on weekends and peak season
Peak Crowd Times: Mid-morning to early afternoon; arrive early to beat crowds
Best Season: Late spring through early fall (May-October)
Best Time To Visit: Start before 8:00 AM May-October to beat crowds and parking; Island Explorer runs mid-June to October if parking is full.
Tips Advice: Carry 1-2 liters water per person.
Wear sturdy boots with good traction; trekking poles help on rocky sections.
Start early; parking fills by mid-morning; use Island Explorer if needed.
Watch exposed granite ledges and take time on the summit approaches.
Bring a map and stay on the maintained path where marking is uncertain.

More details

Park Area: Acadia National Park, Maine
Trail Markers: Mostly well-marked, but some sections reported as poorly marked; carry map and compass
Shade Level: Mixed; forested sections and summit exposure
Emergency Contacts: Dial 911 for emergencies; contact Acadia National Park rangers via park emergency channels
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Winter snow can render trail impassable; check conditions before heading out
Mud Season: Spring and after heavy rains
Fall Colors Peak: Mid-October
Bug Season: Mosquitoes common in marshy areas during warm months
Insider Tips: Prioritize North Bubble for less crowd; combine both peaks if time allows.
Start before 8 AM to secure parking and beat heat.
Park at the Bubbles Divide Trailhead; the lot is small and fills quickly.
Family Friendly Notes: Generally suitable for families, but rocky/steep sections require supervision; rock squeeze may challenge mobility for some
Review Summary: Hikers rate the climb as a solid moderate effort with a solid payoff from the summits; parking and crowds are common complaints, especially on weekends. The trail surface is well-maintained, but rocky sections demand attention; the Jordan Pond perspective is the standout payoff.