The Bowl
A hidden gem in Acadia, The Bowl offers a tranquil mountain-top pond perfect for a refreshing swim and peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
The Bowl
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem in Acadia, The Bowl offers a tranquil mountain-top pond perfect for a refreshing swim and peaceful escape.
"You pretty much have the whole place to yourself. The water is crystal clear and the area is peacefully quiet."
Choose Your Trail Wisely
Opt for the direct route from Loop Road for an easier hike, or tackle the Beehive Trail for a more adventurous climb.
Embrace the Dip!
The water is surprisingly warm! Jump in for a refreshing swim, but watch out for slippery rocks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bowl Pond
Acadia National Park
A serene mountain-top pond offering crystal-clear water and peaceful solitude. Perfect for a refreshing dip.
Beehive Trail Detour
Acadia National Park
A rewarding short detour from the Beehive Trail, offering stunning views and a less crowded experience.
Echoes and Reflections
The Bowl Pond
Experience the unique acoustics of the pond and enjoy the tranquil reflections of the surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for The Bowl
Accessing The Bowl: Trail Choices
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Trail Wisely
Opt for the direct route from Loop Road for an easier hike, or tackle the Beehive Trail for a more adventurous climb.
Embrace the Dip!
The water is surprisingly warm! Jump in for a refreshing swim, but watch out for slippery rocks.
Peaceful Solitude Awaits
Many visitors skip this spot, so you'll likely have the pond to yourself. Enjoy the quiet!
Watch for Frogs!
Keep an eye out for the local amphibian residents in and around the pond.
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Trail Wisely
Opt for the direct route from Loop Road for an easier hike, or tackle the Beehive Trail for a more adventurous climb.
Embrace the Dip!
The water is surprisingly warm! Jump in for a refreshing swim, but watch out for slippery rocks.
Peaceful Solitude Awaits
Many visitors skip this spot, so you'll likely have the pond to yourself. Enjoy the quiet!
Watch for Frogs!
Keep an eye out for the local amphibian residents in and around the pond.
Pack for the Views
The Bowl offers breathtaking views, especially in the fall. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Bowl for its serene beauty and the refreshing swim opportunity, often finding it a peaceful escape with fewer crowds than other Acadia attractions. While some find the trek a bit demanding for the payoff, most agree it's a worthwhile detour for its tranquility and clear waters.
"The place is called for adventure and provides relax swim, in the pond on the mountain top.
Way to reach:
Easy: enter through loop road follow signs for the bowl look at the picture where you see a black sign, Do not go on a Beehive hike ( if you’re not adventurous enough)
Dead to dangerous: Go on a beehive train , climb the mountain which you can see from intersection and enjoy the views climbing up. Enjoy on the top follow blue line and decent from other side,
After 15 good minutes Woooha
You’re at the Bowl
Amazing views, very good location for echo, go in the water immediately( water is little warm then surrounding)
You’ll notice algae but water is clear till you see the fishes , be careful for rocks on the lake bad.
Take your time swim in the water , make good memories and head out before sundown
It will be easy hike down"
Atri Dave
"Short detour from The Beehive trail. For the very modest amount of extra effort, I think it is totally worth it. Jordan Lake is obviously way more beautiful, but the nice part of this is that you pretty much have the whole place to yourself. A lot of people just skip this part of the trail. The water is crystal clear and the area is peacefully quiet."
Rasikanand Harvind
"One of the best views we experienced in Acadia was the hike to The Bowl! Breathtaking in the Fall. Got there later in the day, and it was the perfect spot to take a break after a long day of hiking."
Joe Bourbeau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access The Bowl via a short detour from the Beehive Trail or by following signs from the Park Loop Road. The Beehive Trail route is more challenging, involving climbing, while the Loop Road access is generally easier.
The difficulty depends on your chosen route. The detour from the Beehive Trail adds some climbing, but the descent is manageable. Direct access from the Park Loop Road is considered easier.
You can follow signs from the Park Loop Road for access to The Bowl, which is a more straightforward approach than the Beehive Trail.
For an easier hike, enter through the Loop Road and follow signs for The Bowl. If you're adventurous, consider the Beehive Trail and descend from the other side.
Parking can be limited, especially at the Beehive Trailhead. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, access to Acadia National Park requires an entrance fee. You'll need a park pass to enter and explore areas like The Bowl.
The Bowl is accessible during park hours. It's best to check the official Acadia National Park website for current operating hours and any seasonal closures.
No, there is no separate fee for The Bowl. Your Acadia National Park entrance pass covers access to all trails and features within the park.
The Bowl is generally accessible year-round, but trail conditions can vary significantly with weather. Winter visits may require snowshoes or other winter gear.
Reservations are not typically required for The Bowl itself, but Acadia National Park may require vehicle reservations for certain popular areas like Cadillac Summit Road during peak season. Check the park's official website for the latest information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a relaxing swim in the clear, cool water, take in the peaceful atmosphere, and appreciate the unique echoes. It's also a great spot for photography.
Yes, swimming is permitted in The Bowl. The water is clear and refreshing, though be mindful of slippery rocks.
The water in The Bowl is often described as a little warmer than the surrounding lakes, making it pleasant for swimming.
There are no dedicated facilities like restrooms or changing rooms directly at The Bowl. It's a natural pond setting.
Visitors have reported seeing frogs and fish in and around The Bowl.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene beauty of the pond, the reflections on the water, and the surrounding natural landscape. The fall foliage offers particularly stunning photographic potential.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more tranquil ambiance.
Drone usage is restricted in many national parks, including Acadia. Always check the official Acadia National Park regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the pond and landscape. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
While you can see parts of the surrounding landscape, the primary focus at The Bowl is the pond itself. The Beehive Trail offers its own distinct photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Beehive Trail detour is generally not recommended for young children due to its challenging nature, the direct route offers a manageable hike. Pack water shoes for the kids to navigate the rocky bottom of the pond comfortably. Remember to bring plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities at The Bowl.
🚶♀️ Adventurous Hikers
After the demanding climb, reaching the tranquil Bowl pond provides a perfect reward. The contrast between the rugged trail and the serene water is a unique aspect of this adventure. Be sure to wear appropriate hiking footwear and be comfortable with heights.
📸 Nature Photographers
Experiment with different angles to showcase the reflections and the surrounding natural beauty. The fall season is particularly spectacular, offering vibrant foliage that adds an extra layer of visual interest to your photographs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating The Bowl Trails
Alternatively, The Bowl can be reached as a detour from the popular Beehive Trail. This route is considerably more challenging, involving iron rungs, ladders, and exposed cliff faces. While adventurous, it offers spectacular views along the way. Hikers should be comfortable with heights and scrambling. The descent from the Beehive Trail to The Bowl provides a rewarding transition to the tranquil pond.
Regardless of the chosen path, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as hiking boots or sturdy athletic shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, and be prepared for changing conditions.
The Allure of The Bowl Pond
The water in The Bowl is surprisingly clear, allowing you to see the rocky bottom and even small fish. While it can be a bit chilly, many find it pleasantly refreshing, especially after a hike. Be cautious of the rocks, as they can be slippery. The pond's unique location and acoustics also create a special atmosphere, making it a memorable stop within Acadia.
Many visitors find The Bowl to be a perfect place to take a break between more strenuous hikes or to simply enjoy a moment of quiet reflection. The surrounding landscape provides a beautiful backdrop, and the opportunity to have such a serene spot largely to yourself is a significant draw.
Photography at The Bowl
When visiting, consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive beauty of the pond and its setting. A polarizing filter can be beneficial to reduce glare on the water's surface, enhancing the clarity of the reflections and the colors of the landscape.
While the pond itself is the main subject, don't forget to capture the details of the trail leading to it and the surrounding flora. The fall season, in particular, transforms the area into a vibrant tapestry of colors, offering spectacular photographic moments.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit