The hike starts on the Bubbles Divide Trail. The trail becomes steeper with steps just before the junction of the Bubbles Trail to North Bubble. For the loop, take a right at this junction. A 0.7-mile jaunt to Bubble Rock, a precarious glacial erratic, is well worth the trip -- continue straight and then take a left onto the Bubbles Trail. Return the way you came to resume the loop.
Continuing onto North Bubble, the trail becomes steep with open granite ledges and will be slick in wet weather. There are excellent views of Jordan Pond, Pemetic and Sargent Mountains, and the Cranberry Isles. After the North Bubble summit, the trail turns north providing unique views of Eagle Lake and the northern portion of the island before descending into the forest. When the trail crosses the carriage road, the hike continues to the right along this non-motorized crushed stone road. Stay to the right to allow bikers and equestrians to safely pass. In approximately 0.6 miles, look for a path and small wood foot bridge in the forest on the right. This is the Jordan Pond Carry Trail. When the trail intersects the carriage road, turn right. The Carry Trail passes through a deciduous forest. Portions of the trail have wooden planks to avoid wet sections. The trail gently rises until it reaches the junction with the Bubbles Divide Trail. A left at this junction leads back to the parking lot.
For a short side trip, stay on the Bubbles Trail as it crosses the carriage road and ascends Conners Nubble for a view of Eagle Lake (0.1 miles). Retrace your steps back on the carriage road. (If you descend the trail to Eagle Lake, take a right and expect a very rocky, rough hike along Eagle Lake until the trail connects with the Carry Trail.)
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. In 5 miles The Bubbles parking lot is on the right.
During the busy summer months the parking lot is usually full, so your best option is to leave your car at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center and take the Island Explorer Bus. The Park Loop Road is closed December 1 until April 15. This hike can be accessed from Jordan Pond by taking the Jordan Pond Path to the Carry Trail. Snowshoes are recommended during the winter. See the park website for winter access information.
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