If you’ve been to Acadia National Park then you’ve been to or at least driven by Jordan Pond. It’s one of the iconic locations of the park and there are many reasons why.
Jordan Pond is one of many picturesque mountain lakes on Mount Desert Island but this location has a few extra things going for it that add to the spectacular scenery.
One of the unique things about this lake is that there is an easy walking trail completely around this pond which is a little over three and a half miles. The walk around the pond takes you to other trails so you can start from about anywhere but the obvious starting point for just the walk is the Jordan Pond House area and one of the many parking lots in that area.
I recommend getting out early before the parking lots fill up and the trail becomes a little crowded. The trail can get a little crowded on the east side from the main parking lots because it’s a super easy gravel trail all the way to the north end of the pond.
This gravel trail is not only popular because of its ease but because of the extremely picturesque views along the way. From the moment you reach the water’s edge from the main parking lots you are greeted by the view of The Bubbles. The North Bubble and South Bubble mountains reflect on the waters and you just have to take a deep breathe and take in the view. While it slows you down a little, I highly recommend walking away from the trail at a few points along the north shore of the pond just simply to see The Bubbles from different angles.
After taking in the view of The Bubbles, keep walking and before you know it you’ll be at The Bubbles Trailheads at the north end of the pond so be sure to look upward for a different view of this pair of mountains.
Once at the northern end, you’ll find a small walking bridge that takes you over the pond inlet. You can look down the pond towards The Jordan Pond House. Along the way be sure to look for wildlife especially loons. There is always at least of one mating pair on the pond and if lucky enough you can see the entire family at one time.
Also along the trail, you’ll find the little red squirrels running around and talking to you so be sure to stop and tell one about how much you enjoy their home. They will appreciate the compliments.
The northern end of the west side of the pond has one small section of the trail that is through a large boulder field and does require a little ‘rock-hopping’ however it’s not too bad for most people but if you take a dog with you keep in mind that you might have to help your four-legged friend get through this section. And hey if you need to take a break you cannot get a more relaxing view.
The west side also features a long section of cut log walking paths which helps to protect the environment from the amount of foot traffic. While the boarded trail adds to the charm of this hike, it can be a little challenging for some people especially those with balance issues as you really have to pay attention to every step.
There are these types of log trails within Acadia but this part under Jordan Pond is quite long compared to others. But if worried just slow your pace and enjoy the walk and you’ll be fine plus you’ll have more time to take in the beauty of this walk through the pine woods.
Once through the log portion of the trail, you’ll find yourself on a gravel trail again and coming up to the busy intersection of several carriage roads and the Jordan Pond House area.
If you want to add to the walk, I recommend taking the carriage road following the stream out of the pond. It’s some beautiful scenes along the stream as you go down the hill, but remember every downhill has an uphill.
Now I need to talk about the Jordan Pond House, you must check out the view from this location. Once you do you’ll understand why the Jordan family built a home here round 1847. The view of the pond and the bubbles is awe-inspiring. In the 1870s, the restaurant was started and in the 1890s Nellie McIntyre started the famous tea and popover trend that is still going strong well over a century later.
The restaurant is a modern full-service operation offering lunch, dinner and afternoon tea with a large indoor dining area along with an even larger outdoor on the lawn area which is the way to go if weather permits.
While this is, in my opinion, something you should do just for the view and the history of the experience, please keep in mind that it’s believed over 60% of all visitors to the park go to the Jordan Pond House so recommend that you make a reservation. Helpful hints are trying to not go on a weekend and if there during cruise ship season try to go on a day when there are no or smaller ships as they bus people to this spectacular area.
Also, go for an early lunch so that you don’t have to worry about parking. If you are staying a few days you can do the walk around the pond one day and lunch on a different day, the view is worth seeing more than once if you choose to do it this way. But you can check on the wait after your walk and see how long the wait. Again if early and not a really busy day in Acadia terms then you should be able to do it all in one day.
I can’t recommend this walk enough even if you can only go on a busy day but if you get out shortly after sunrise then you’ll have the benefit of usually calm morning waters which are perfect for mirror-like reflections. Also, it will not so as busy on the trail and you’ll have more time to just take in the scenes. If you’re lucky you’ll also be able to spend a little time hanging with the loons which is an amazing experience all on its own.
If you do his walk or have done it, let me know your thoughts on the whole experience.
