Jordan Pond House Trail
Hike Jordan Pond Loop with Island Explorer Bus the Park Service's write-up
1-2 Hours · dogs allowed · Spring, Summer, Fall
Start Jordan Pond Loop
Offering visitors one of the of the iconic vistas of the Acadia, Jordan pond lies at the base three picturesque peaks: Pemetic, the Bubbles, and Penobscot. The pond is a remnant of glaciers and is the deepest of the lakes in the park at 150 feet and the second largest in the park. The calm, pristine water and the lush surroundings allow the visitor to relax on this 3.3-mile hike around the pond while soaking up some unforgettable scenery.
The Jordan Pond Loop circles one of the most picturesque ponds on the island and is considered a park crown jewel. It has been described as the “clearest lake in Maine”, and is a major tourist draw. It is at the base of several mountains that surround it, including the Bubbles on the north end, the steep rock face of Jordan Cliff to the west, and western flank of Pemetic Mountain to the east.
There are many opportunities to explore the shore of the pond and birdwatching is popular with peregrine falcons nesting in the towering rock face of Jordan Cliff during the summer, and common loons that nest on the pond below. The trail also allows for multiple opportunities to explore the shores of the pond.
Although it has no real elevation gain, the trail has three distinct walking surfaces to consider. The pond’s east side trail is mostly even with occasional exposed tree roots and rocks; the west portion requires rock hopping on and between large granite boulders, while the southwest section consists of a narrow boardwalk to protect the fragile wetland below. If looking for a hike with no obstacles, it is suggested to hike only the east side and return.
Accessibility The Jordan Pond path is an unpaved trail. The first 1.3 miles is the most even section, but there are exposed roots and rocks along the way. The west side of the pond consists of large boulders to be negotiated and narrow single-file boardwalks with widened areas to make passing possible.
Hike Sargent and Penobscot Mountains from JPH with Island Explorer Bus 7 mi round trip · the Park Service's write-up
dogs allowed · Spring, Summer, Fall
Start Sargent and Penobscot Mountains from JPH
Depending on the route you choose the assent to Penobscot and Sargent Mountains are a challenging, and strenuous climb that is sometimes difficult, but rewarding. The hike from Jordan Pond House across Spring Trail up Penobscot Mountain Trail and then on to Sargent South Ridge Trail to Sargent Mountain is approx. 6- or 7-miles roundtrip and is made possible by the Island Explorer Bus. The trails consist of forested path, granite stairs and slopes, and iron rungs, in a mostly conifer forest. 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. Restrooms available at Jordan Pond House.
This 3-to-4-hour hike provides challenging trails and rewarding views. Several trails lead to Sargent Mountain and Sargent Mountain Pond in Acadia National Park. All of them are steep and all of them offer stunning views of mountain, valley, and sea. Start your experience by walking to the edge of Jordan Pond in front of the Pond House to enjoy the spectacular view of the Bubble Mountains across the lake. Cross near signpost 15 on the Carriage Road to access the Spring trail to begin your climb. You can bag multiple peaks along your hike including Sargent Mountain, Penobscot Mountain, Gilmore Peak, Parkman Mountain, Bald Peak, and Cedar Swamp Mountain if you wish to increase the length and difficulty of your hike. Including all these peaks in a single day is possible but plan in advance and be ready to dedicate many hours to hiking. Bring lots of water, snacks, and layers.
Several trails lead to Penobscot and Sargent Mountains in Acadia National Park. All of them are steep and made of boot-battering granite, and all of them offer stunning views of mountain, valley, and sea. The trails consist of forested path, granite stairs and slopes, and iron rungs, in a mostly conifer forest. Sargent Mountain Pond lies between the two peaks. It is small, tranquil and beautiful. You may wish to swim or picnic by this mountain pond.
THINGS TO DO:
Photography - The views of the Bubble Mountains across Jordan Pond are known the world over for their spectacular beauty. Along the hike, enjoy views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding mountains where the trail opens up.
Birdwatching- Watch for soaring birds over Jordan Pond and loons in the lake. (Nearby Jordan Cliffs Trail is sometimes closed to protect nesting peregrine falcons. Check the park website or the Hulls Cove Visitors Center for trail closures).
Passport Stamp Collecting - Visitors can collect a passport stamp from Jordan Pond House at mile 0.0 at the start of the trek.
Historic Structures -Jordan Pond House is located on the southern end of Jordan Pond. It has been a scenic, recreational, and dining destination on Mount Desert Island since the nineteenth century.
Dining - Jordan Pond House serves tea and popovers, as it has since the 1890s, in addition to other dining options. The Carriage Road Carry takeout restaurant is located on the second-floor landing of the restaurant. It serves a light breakfast including coffee and sandwiches for lunch. The gift shop offers drinks, ice cream and other trail snacks, located on the send floor. All these dining options are open seasonally mid-May through mid-October. Enjoy superb views of the Bubble Mountains across the lake from the landing.
Restrooms - There are bathrooms at Jordan Pond House.
Accessibility This trail is recommended for experienced, fit hikers only. It is not recommended for small children, for people with a fear of heights, or for anyone in wet weather.