After reaching the pond, a right turn on the Jordan Pond Path goes along the east side first, which is an easy walk on a compact surface. A left on the trail travels the west side first, mostly on a long section of wooden planks over a boggy area. (Stay on the planks to avoid damaging the fragile plants below.) The north end of the west side is rugged as it traverses uneven granite. Because it's a loop, the hike can be taken in either direction.
At 150 feet, Jordan Pond is Acadia’s deepest and clearest lake and is the second largest at 187 acres. It is also a public water supply. Therefore, swimming and wading is prohibited. Pets are not allowed in the water. Gulls, loons, mergansers, as well as frogs and beavers are frequently seen. At the north end of the pond look for a beaver lodge.
The Jordan Pond area is an excellent place to appreciate Acadia's glacially carved landscape. As glaciers moved through the area thousands of years ago, they created "U" shaped valleys, and long finger lakes and ridge lines which run north and south. When standing on the lawn of the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, you're actually standing on a glacial moraine, the rock and soil that was picked up and transported by the glaciers. The material was deposited here by the last glacier as it melted and retreated.
Dogs are allowed on the trail on a six foot leash.
Geocaching is prohibited within Acadia National Park; however, the park does sponsor an EarthCache Program for those seeking a virtual treasure hunt!
Visit Acadia National Park online for more information or contact:
Starting from ME Route 3, turn off at the Hulls Cove Entrance to Acadia National Park and the Hulls Cove Visitor Center. Follow the Park Loop Road. At 2.8 miles continue straight remaining on the two-way section of the Loop Road following signs for Jordan Pond. Use the North Lot parking area on the right just before the Jordan Pond House. Walk down the boat access to the pond. The Jordan Pond Trail crosses the boat launch. The hike can be taken in either direction.
During the busy summer months, parking is very difficult to find. Leave your car at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center and take the Island Explorer Bus. From behind the restaurant walk down to the Pond.
Success! A new password has been emailed to you.
We had a great time on this trail, and recapped it all here: https://www.ahealthysliceoflife.com/bar-harbor-maine-part-1/