Jordan Pond
4.8(424)google
3.4(1.1K)yelp
LakeHikingPhoto Spot
Overview
Jordan Pond is an oligotrophic tarn in Acadia National Park near the town of Bar Harbor, Maine. The pond covers 187 acres (76 ha) to a maximum depth of 150 feet (46 m) with a shoreline of 3.6 miles (5.8 km). The pond was formed by the Wisconsin Ice Sheet during the last glacial period.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration2-4 hours
Best TimeJune through October is spectacular, with early October delivering the iconic photography composition of 'The Bubbles' twin peaks reflected in water framed by fiery foliage. The ideal visiting window is 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, allowing you to catch the golden light before sitting on the lawn at Jordan Pond House for their legendary freshly baked popovers and tea.
Getting ThereDrivers can navigate to the large but frequently congested Jordan Pond parking lots located on the two-way portion of the Park Loop Road. The most highly recommended transit method is taking the Island Explorer Route 5 (Jordan Pond Line) directly from the Bar Harbor Village Green. The bus drops passengers off steps from both the restaurant and the lakeside loop trailhead.
Travel Tips
- The two tiny lots at Jordan Pond House face absolute deadlock from 9 AM to 3 PM; parking tires on grassy roadside margins brings immediate non-negotiable tow-aways, requiring visitors to utilize Island Explorer Routes 4 or 5 instead.
- Jordan Pond is a strictly monitored public drinking water reservoir; state and federal laws prohibit all body contact with the water, completely banning wading, swimming, pet bathing, and personal paddleboard or kayak launches under criminal court summons.
- The 3.3-mile loop's western half consists of long, narrow, elevated single-file boardwalk planks and slick glacier boulder scrambles; strollers, large dogs, and those with poor balance must avoid this sector and utilize the flat gravel eastern trail.
- NewJordan Pond House gets long waits even outside meal times; grab a to-go number from the upstairs counter first, then walk the pond loop while you wait.
- NewThe signature popover with ice cream is worth trying and is also available at the upstairs to-go counter; the lobster popover was underwhelming — the classic lobster roll is the better choice.
- NewOn windy days the pond loop feels less impressive than the mountain viewpoints, so if time is tight, schedule Jordan Pond later in your itinerary.
Reviews
Positive
- The crystal-clear lake waters paired with the distant Twin Bubbles form a classic postcard view; its raw visual purity fully lives up to its elite reputation.
- The loop boardwalk is perfectly maintained; log bridges and stone steps are well-marked, and the lakeside brick rest zone features high-standard cleaning.
- The surrounding historic house restaurant is well-regulated, queuing is highly orderly, and staff display gentle and elegant Maine hospitality.
- Wandering along the lake all day is free with zero forced add-ons; renting a canoe to paddle the pristine waters is cheap, offering premier overall value.
- NewThe signature popover is delicious, and it pairs well with the ice cream.
Heads up
- As the park's premier afternoon tea spot, the famous Jordan Pond House requires lines starting at 2 hours, bringing a heavy commercial carnival vibe.
- To protect the elite municipal water source purity, swimming, wading, or pets entering the water are strictly banned, restricting water-loving guests.
- The two nearby lots are maxed out by noon, and even the free Island Explorer shuttle gets packed like a sardine can during peak return hours.
- Accelerating crowds cause traffic clogs on the narrow log paths during peak hours; constantly yielding to oncoming hikers makes long treks feel choppy.
- NewThe lobster popover was mediocre compared to the classic lobster roll; the crab roll and crab salad were also unremarkable and not worth ordering.