Little Long Pond
A serene pond and wooded trails on Mount Desert Island, famous for its off-leash dog-friendly policies and water activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Maximize off-leash dog time
Little Long Pond
Best Time
Maximize off-leash dog time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene pond and wooded trails on Mount Desert Island, famous for its off-leash dog-friendly policies and water activities.
"Best dog park ever! This beautiful lake is surrounded by hiking trails."
🐾 Dog Off-Leash Hours
Dogs are allowed off-leash before 10 AM and after 4 PM. :dog:
🦟 Pack Bug Spray!
Essential for enjoying the wooded trails, especially during warmer months. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Off-Leash Dog Haven
Little Long Pond
Let your furry friends roam free and splash in the pond – a rare treat on Mount Desert Island!
+1
Scenic Pond Loop
Little Long Pond
Enjoy a lovely wooded walk around the pond, perfect for all hiking abilities.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Little Long Pond
Rent kayaks or paddleboards for a fun day on the clean, clear water with terrific views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dog-Friendly Paradise
+1Trail Etiquette & Bug Spray
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog Off-Leash Hours
Dogs are allowed off-leash before 10 AM and after 4 PM.
🦟 Pack Bug Spray!
Essential for enjoying the wooded trails, especially during warmer months. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
🛶 Water Rentals Available
Rent kayaks or paddleboards for a fun day on the pond. :kayak:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Trails are generally easy, but good shoes are always recommended for walks. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog Off-Leash Hours
Dogs are allowed off-leash before 10 AM and after 4 PM.
🦟 Pack Bug Spray!
Essential for enjoying the wooded trails, especially during warmer months. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
🛶 Water Rentals Available
Rent kayaks or paddleboards for a fun day on the pond. :kayak:
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Trails are generally easy, but good shoes are always recommended for walks. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated during your walks and water activities. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Little Long Pond for its beautiful natural setting and exceptional dog-friendliness, calling it a 'gem' and the 'best dog park ever.' The easy trails and opportunities for water activities like kayaking are also highly appreciated. Some visitors express concern about potential crowds during peak tourist seasons.
"An amazing walk, even if you aren’t an experienced hiker. Lovely wooded area, recommend looping around Little Long Pond for a tree covered walk. Wear bug spray!"
Rachel Cauwels
"Best dog park ever! This beautiful lake is surrounded by hiking trails and the infamous Acadia National Park carriage trails. Our dogs had so much fun playing with other dogs here but also enjoyed the pond itself. The park is well maintained and has doggie bags and a covered trash bin for owners to keep up after the pets."
Rachele Wharton
"One of the few, if not only places you can let your dog of lead in Acadia National Park plus allowed to swim in the pond"
Tim Clements
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Little Long Pond is located on Mount Desert Island, near Acadia National Park. It's accessible by car, and parking is available. While not directly within Acadia National Park, it's a popular spot for visitors to the area.
No, Little Long Pond is not part of Acadia National Park. It is managed by the Land & Garden Preserve, which allows for different regulations, notably for dogs.
Yes, you can drive to Little Long Pond. There is parking available for visitors.
The area offers a network of trails, including the Little Long Pond loop and connections to the Acadia National Park carriage trails. A map of the Land & Garden Preserve trails is recommended for exploring the full extent.
Information on public transport directly to Little Long Pond is limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for exploring Mount Desert Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Little Long Pond is managed by the Land & Garden Preserve and typically does not require an entrance fee for general access. However, it's always good to check their official website for any updates or special event ticketing.
The preserve is generally open during daylight hours. Specific hours for off-leash dog access are typically before 10 AM and after 4 PM.
Entry to Little Long Pond is generally free, as it's managed by the Land & Garden Preserve.
Yes, Little Long Pond is very dog-friendly! Dogs are allowed off-leash during specific hours (before 10 AM and after 4 PM) and can swim in the pond. +1
The main restriction is on leash rules. Dogs must be leashed outside of the designated off-leash hours. Always be mindful of other visitors and ensure your dog is well-behaved.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking the trails, letting dogs off-leash during designated hours, swimming in the pond, and renting kayaks or paddleboards.
Yes, many trails around Little Long Pond are considered easy and suitable for beginners and families. The loop around the pond is particularly accessible.
The terrain includes wooded areas, open fields, and the pond's edge. Trails are generally well-maintained, though some can be uneven.
Crowds can vary. Weekends and peak tourist season may see more visitors, especially during off-leash dog hours. Visiting on weekdays or during the off-season offers a more peaceful experience.
Expect beautiful wooded landscapes, a serene pond, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The scenery is a major draw for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene pond reflections, the lush wooded trails, and happy dogs enjoying the off-leash freedom. The interplay of light through the trees is also beautiful.
Drone usage regulations can be complex, especially near national parks. It's best to check local regulations and the Land & Garden Preserve's policies before flying a drone.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be bright but still offers lovely natural scenes.
Absolutely! Little Long Pond is a fantastic spot for dog photography, especially during off-leash hours when they can be captured in natural, playful poses.
The entire loop around the pond offers picturesque views. Look for clearings in the trees and along the water's edge for the best shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While not a typical playground, the natural environment offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and imaginative play. Renting a kayak or paddleboard can also be a memorable family activity if your children are comfortable on the water.
🐶 Dog Owners
+1 Your canine companions can run freely, swim in the pond, and socialize with other dogs. It's often described as the 'best dog park ever.' Be sure to bring waste bags and utilize the provided bins to keep the area clean. While off-leash is permitted, always supervise your dog and be prepared to leash them if needed. The trails offer ample space for dogs to explore.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the pond or embark on longer treks through the wooded areas. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to add a water-based activity to your exploration. The varied terrain and scenic beauty make it a rewarding destination for active visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dog-Friendly Advantage
+1 Many visitors rave about this aspect, calling it the 'best dog park ever.' It's important to note that while dogs can be off-leash, responsible pet ownership is still key. Keep an eye on your dog, ensure they are well-behaved around other visitors and animals, and always be prepared to leash them if necessary. The preserve also provides doggie bags and trash bins, encouraging visitors to keep the area clean.
This dog-friendly policy makes Little Long Pond a unique and cherished spot, offering a relaxed atmosphere where both humans and their canine companions can have an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Exploring the Trails and Waterways
For those seeking aquatic adventures, Little Long Pond is an excellent spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. Rentals are available, allowing visitors to explore the clean, clear water and enjoy the surrounding scenery from a different perspective. The calm waters make it ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
When planning your visit, remember that the trails can be extensive, with reports of up to 45 miles of trails in the broader area.
Wearing comfortable shoes is a must, and bringing insect repellent is highly recommended, especially during the warmer months, to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable exploration of both the land and water. History and Preservation
The preserve is dedicated to stewardship and sharing the stories of its passion for conservation. Educational initiatives, such as webinars, have been held to discuss the origin stories of trails and insights into the ongoing care of the pond and its surrounding marshlands.
This commitment to preservation means visitors can experience a well-maintained natural landscape that offers both recreational opportunities and a glimpse into the thoughtful conservation efforts that protect this special place.
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