Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park

In the heart of Acadia National Park lies one of the most serene and picturesque locations in all of Maine — Jordan Pond. Surrounded by forested hills and framed by the twin rounded summits of the Bubbles, Jordan Pond is a place where natural beauty and quiet reflection converge. Whether you're coming for the iconic views, a peaceful paddle, or the famous popovers at Jordan Pond House, this crystal-clear glacial lake is a must-see destination.

Jordan Pond

Geography and Formation

Jordan Pond was formed by glacial activity during the last Ice Age, approximately 15,000 years ago. The retreating glaciers carved out the landscape, leaving behind a deep, clear, and elongated basin, which was later filled with water. The pond is 150 feet deep at its deepest point, making it the deepest lake in Acadia National Park. Spanning over 187 acres, it stretches approximately 3.6 miles around its perimeter, creating an ideal setting for hiking and walking along its shores.

The lake is surrounded by three prominent geographic features: Penobscot Mountain to the west, Pemetic Mountain to the east, and the iconic Bubbles to the north. The North and South Bubbles are twin rounded hills that rise dramatically from the pond's northern shore, offering a striking backdrop for photos and a popular hiking destination for park visitors. The combination of the pond’s reflective waters and the steep mountain ridges creates one of the most photographed views in all of Acadia.

Jordan Pond Map

The Iconic View: The Bubbles

One of the most recognizable scenes in all of Acadia is the view of North and South Bubble Mountains rising gently behind Jordan Pond. These twin rounded peaks form a perfect backdrop, especially on calm days when their reflections shimmer on the water’s surface.

The Jordan Pond Path offers numerous photo opportunities of the Bubbles from all angles. Whether you're standing on the wooden footbridges or wandering along the stony shoreline, the view never gets old — especially during the fall, when the surrounding forests blaze with color.

Jordan Pond

Jordan Pond House: A Culinary Tradition

One of the most famous landmarks near Jordan Pond is the Jordan Pond House, a historic restaurant and tea house that has been serving visitors since the late 1800s. Originally established as a small rustic inn, the Jordan Pond House became renowned for its traditional afternoon tea, served with freshly baked popovers and homemade jam, enjoyed on the lawn overlooking the pond.

Today, the Jordan Pond House continues this tradition, offering visitors a chance to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of the pond and the Bubbles. The menu has expanded to include a variety of New England-inspired dishes, including locally sourced seafood, but the iconic popovers remain a favorite treat.

The restaurant also serves as a hub for park visitors, with its convenient location near several trailheads and scenic drives. During peak season, the Jordan Pond House can get quite busy, so it’s recommended to make reservations in advance or visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.

Jordan Pond House

Hiking Around Jordan Pond

The Jordan Pond Path is a 3.3-mile loop trail that circles the shoreline of the pond. It’s one of the most popular and accessible trails in Acadia, suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels. The path is mostly flat, with some sections crossing wooden boardwalks to protect fragile wetland areas.

As you walk the loop, you’ll encounter a blend of forest, bog, and open shoreline, each offering unique vantage points of the pond and surrounding peaks. Many visitors start their walk from the Jordan Pond House, looping around clockwise for the best light on the Bubbles.

For a more adventurous hike, consider climbing one (or both) of the Bubbles via the Bubble Trail. The South Bubble features a short but steep ascent and is home to the famous Bubble Rock, a glacial erratic perched precariously on the edge of a cliff.

Canoeing and Kayaking

While swimming is off-limits, non-motorized boating is permitted on Jordan Pond. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards offer a peaceful way to explore the water and observe wildlife like loons, ducks, and perhaps the occasional otter.

Access to the water is available near the Jordan Pond North Lot via a small launch area. Keep in mind that motorized boats are not allowed, helping to maintain the pond’s tranquil atmosphere and pristine water quality.

Wildlife and Ecology

Jordan Pond’s surrounding ecosystem is rich in both plant and animal life. Along the shore, you may spot beavers, muskrats, or white-tailed deer. In the water, brook trout and landlocked salmon are present, though fishing is restricted and highly regulated to protect the water supply.

The wetlands and forests around the pond support a variety of birds, from warblers to raptors. In summer, the area buzzes with the sound of dragonflies and the calls of loons echoing across the water.

Conclusion

Jordan Pond is much more than just a scenic spot in Acadia National Park—it’s a place of tranquility, natural beauty, and ecological importance. Whether you’re hiking along its shores, enjoying a meal at the historic Jordan Pond House, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the Bubbles reflected in the clear water, a visit to Jordan Pond offers a memorable experience that showcases the best of what Acadia has to offer.

Its glacial origins, exceptional water quality, and surrounding wilderness make it a true gem of the park, one that continues to inspire and captivate visitors year after year.