Jordan Cliffs Trail
Hike Jordan Cliffs Loop 5 mi round trip · the Park Service's write-up
3-4 Hours · no dogs · Spring, Fall · season <p>This trail and associated trails are closed seasonally to public entry to protect peregrine falcons from inadvertent disturbance or harassment during the nesting period. Park staff has observed adults at these sites engaging in courtship and pre-nesting behavior signaling the birds’ intentions to nest and raise chicks during the spring and early summer. Check <a href="https://www.nps.gov/acad/planyourvisit/conditions.htm">current conditions</a> for updates on trail closures before hiking.</p>
Start Jordan Pond
The Jordan Cliffs Loop offers a challenging hike across the steep slope, iron rungs included, and a strenuous climb up Sargent Mountain. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views from two mountain summits and a picturesque pond nestled between the mountains. It is not recommended for small children, for people with a fear of heights, or for anyone in wet weather.
Distance: 5.0 miles round trip
Terrain: Forested path, granite stairs and slopes, iron rungs, sheer cliffs, rocky trails
Hike Description
Start at the Jordan Pond boat launch. At the pond, turn left on the Jordan Pond Trail.
When it connects with the carriage road, turn left on the carriage road. At sign post 15 turn right. The Spring Trail begins after crossing a small wooden foot bridge.
Continue for .3 miles over a gradual ascent using several sets of stone stairs.
At the junction for the Jordan Cliffs Trail, bear right and cross the carriage road.
The Jordan Cliffs Trail continues through the forest as it traverses the rugged east face of Penobscot Mountain. Stone steps, and a narrow, one log bridge provides some assistance. Enjoy views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding mountains where the trail opens up.
Be cautious as the trail narrows with a 200 foot drop and has an exposed climb with iron rungs.
After the junction with Penobscot East Trail, the Jordan Cliffs Trail begins a rugged descent for .25 miles and ends at the junction of the Deer Brook Trail and the East Cliffs Trail.
Continue for .6 miles on the Sargent East Cliffs Trail on a steep, rugged climb. Stone steps provide some assistance.
Just before the summit of Sargent Mountain, the trail levels off and then gradually ascends. The hiker is rewarded at the summit with excellent views of Jordan Pond, Eagle Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Continue down Sargent South Ridge Trail with a left turn at the junction with the Penobscot Mountain Trail. The trail descends steeply and passes Sargent Mountain Pond before ascending the north slope of Penobscot.
Continue south on the Penobscot Mountain Trail, descending on open granite sections.
At the junction of the Spring Trail, turn left and descend steeply. Use both hands and iron rungs and wooden rails to assist the rugged descent.
Cross the carriage road and returns to the start near Jordan Pond.
Pets Pets are not allowed, due to the iron rungs, ladders, and many steep sections.
Accessibility The Jordan Cliffs Loop is not accessible. The trails have sections with uneven footing, climbing, iron rungs and ladders, and steep, exposed granite throughout. There are accessible restrooms at Jordan Pond House.