Bubble Rock
A massive glacial erratic perched precariously on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of Jordan Pond.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Bubble Rock
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A massive glacial erratic perched precariously on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of Jordan Pond.
"The view from up there over the Jordan Pond is amazing. Definitely a must see."
🚗 Parking is a challenge!
Arrive very early or use the Island Explorer bus from Jordan Pond House.
🥾 Choose your trail wisely
South Bubble for the rock, North Bubble for pond views. Both can be steep!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bubble Rock
South Bubble Trail
The iconic precariously balanced boulder offering stunning panoramic views of Jordan Pond.
Jordan Pond Overlook
North Bubble Trail
A breathtaking vista of Jordan Pond and the surrounding landscape, perfect for a scenic break.
Jordan Pond House
Jordan Pond
Historic lodge offering refreshments and a starting point for longer hikes around the pond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Bubble Rock
Trail Options & Difficulty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is a challenge!
Arrive very early or use the Island Explorer bus from Jordan Pond House.
🥾 Choose your trail wisely
South Bubble for the rock, North Bubble for pond views. Both can be steep!
🧗♀️ Be ready to climb
Some sections involve scrambling over rocks, especially on the South Bubble trail.
📸 Capture the view
The overlook of Jordan Pond is spectacular on a clear day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is a challenge!
Arrive very early or use the Island Explorer bus from Jordan Pond House.
🥾 Choose your trail wisely
South Bubble for the rock, North Bubble for pond views. Both can be steep!
🧗♀️ Be ready to climb
Some sections involve scrambling over rocks, especially on the South Bubble trail.
📸 Capture the view
The overlook of Jordan Pond is spectacular on a clear day.
💧 Cross streams carefully
Be prepared to navigate rocky stream crossings, especially if hiking from Jordan Pond House.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the iconic Bubble Rock and the stunning Jordan Pond views, calling it a 'must-see' in Acadia. The hike is described as fun and rewarding, though parking can be a significant challenge. Some find the trails steep and rocky, recommending careful planning for families or those with mobility concerns.
"I hiked around the Jordan Pond and wanted to hike up one Bubble Rock. It happened to be the south Bubble. It is a nice short hike up there with some interesting spots where you need to climb a little. That was so much fun. The view from up there over the Jordan Pond is amazing 😍. Definitely a must see.
Finding a parking spot there can be tricky. The day before I went there and had no luck. You can go there really early to get one or just take one of the buses that go to the Jordan Pond House. From there you would need to hike along the pond but that hike is nice too. That way you combine two hikes into one👍🏼."
Skorp
"We hiked in from the south side off Jordan pond it was super steep and rocky to get up but super fun. Glad we came up and not down. The Northern trail back down to Jordan pond was nice because it had nice defined steps. Easier to navigate down hill. Super fun and great views on a clear day."
Travis G
"We drove by this hike many times, and the parking lot was either full or very busy. We went in the morning at about 6, and there were only a few people on the trail so we mostly had it to ourselves. The view was amazing to rest and look at. Out and back, moderate, steep rocks you need to climb."
Emily Ross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bubble Rock is accessible via the North and South Bubble Trails within Acadia National Park. The most common access point is the Bubbles Parking Lot, but it fills up quickly. Alternatively, you can park at Jordan Pond House and hike to the trailhead, or utilize the Island Explorer shuttle service.
Parking at the Bubbles Lot is very limited and often full. Many visitors opt for early morning visits or use the shuttle service to reach the trailhead.
Yes, the Island Explorer shuttle service stops near Jordan Pond House, which is a starting point for hikes to Bubble Rock. This is a great option to avoid parking issues.
Hiking from Jordan Pond House to Bubble Rock might be challenging with a baby due to steep and rocky sections. Consider using the Island Explorer to get closer to the trailhead or focus on the flatter Jordan Pond Path.
If hiking from Jordan Pond House, it's a longer trek along the Jordan Pond Path before reaching the Bubble trails. The direct hike to Bubble Rock from the Bubbles Parking Lot is much shorter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bubble Rock is located within Acadia National Park, so you will need a park entrance pass to enter. Passes can be purchased online or at park entrance stations.
Bubble Rock is accessible year-round during park hours. However, trail conditions can vary with weather, and the parking lot may be inaccessible in winter.
The trail itself is free to access, but an Acadia National Park entrance fee is required for your vehicle or for each individual entering the park.
You cannot book tickets specifically for Bubble Rock. However, it's advisable to purchase your Acadia National Park entrance pass in advance online to save time.
Acadia National Park does not currently have timed entry requirements for the Bubble Rock trails. However, this can change, so it's always good to check the official NPS website before your visit.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Bubble Rock is generally considered moderate. It's a short hike from the parking lot, but it involves steep sections and requires some rock scrambling.
The hike from the Bubbles Parking Lot to Bubble Rock is typically around 0.4 miles and can take 20-30 minutes each way, depending on your pace and how much you stop for photos.
The most iconic view is from Bubble Rock itself, looking out over Jordan Pond. The North Bubble Trail also offers a fantastic overlook of the pond.
While short, the trail can be steep and rocky, requiring supervision for young children. Some sections may be challenging for very small children or those with mobility issues.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as the trail can be slippery and rocky. Layers are recommended as weather can change quickly in Acadia.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. Golden hour can create stunning shots of Jordan Pond.
The classic shot is of Bubble Rock itself, perched on the cliff. The overlook of Jordan Pond from the North Bubble Trail is also a must-capture.
Drone usage is restricted in Acadia National Park. Check the official National Park Service website for current regulations regarding drone operation.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of Jordan Pond. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies and water.
While specific Bubble Rock tours might be rare, many Acadia National Park photography tours will likely include this iconic spot. Inquire with local tour operators.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting from Jordan Pond House for a longer, more scenic walk around the pond, which can be a gentler introduction. Always supervise children closely, especially on rocky sections, and pack plenty of snacks and water.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save on parking, utilize the free Island Explorer shuttle service or hike from Jordan Pond House. Pack your own picnic lunch to enjoy by Jordan Pond, further reducing expenses.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive landscapes and a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and water. Early morning or late afternoon light will offer the most dramatic and flattering illumination for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Bubble Trails
The South Bubble Trail is the one that leads directly to the famous Bubble Rock. This trail is known for being steeper and more rugged, with sections that require actual climbing over rocks. Many hikers find the descent down the South Bubble Trail to be more challenging than the ascent, so consider taking the North Bubble Trail down if you prefer an easier downhill experience.
Both trails originate from the Bubbles Parking Lot, but can also be accessed from Jordan Pond House via a longer, more scenic route along the Jordan Pond Path. Planning your route based on your fitness level and desired experience is key to enjoying your visit.
The Geology of Bubble Rock
The specific rock type of Bubble Rock is a type of granite, common in the region. Its placement on the edge of the South Bubble cliff is a testament to the immense power of glacial forces. Geologists estimate that Bubble Rock was deposited thousands of years ago. It's a natural wonder that continues to captivate visitors with its unique formation and the story it tells of ancient geological processes.
Experiencing Bubble Rock with Kids
Consider the North Bubble Trail as a potentially more manageable option for families, as it offers fantastic views of Jordan Pond with less intense scrambling. Alternatively, hiking from Jordan Pond House provides a longer, more leisurely walk around the pond, with opportunities for picnics and enjoying the scenery. Bringing snacks and plenty of water is always a good idea for family outings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit