The ULTIMATE Guide of Things to Do at Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park
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Jordan Pond is one of the major highlights of Acadia National Park in Maine. The gorgeous, crisp water is juxtaposed beautifully with the surrounding mountain scenery, creating an unparalleled landscape that is virtually impossible to find anywhere else.
Because of the iconic beauty of Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park, countless visitors come to explore this part of the national park every year. Learn more about Jordan Pond in our detailed guide below, and be sure to check out Jordan Pond House during your visit as well.
About Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park
Located near Bar Harbor Maine, Jordan Pond covers approximately 187 acres and has a maximum depth of 150 feet. It has a total of 3.6 miles of shoreline, and people come from all over the world to go canoeing and kayaking in addition to exploring the nearby trails and roads.
Jordan Pond History
Jordan Pond was formed during the last glacial period when the Wisconsin Ice Sheet began to melt. The history of Jordan Pond House goes back to 1847.
At that time, a group of settlers conducted a logging operation in the area. A small mill was built near the foot of the pond, and the farmhouse was built by the Jordan family, thus the name.
The location grew into a popular recreation area for summer visitors in the next few decades. John Rockefeller purchased the property in 1928, subsequently donating it to the National Park Service.
Location of Jordan Pond
Jordan Pond is located southwest of Bar Harbor Maine in Acadia National Park. The pond is situated just off Park Loop Road, about a 20-minute drive from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center.
Jordan Pond’s Unique Features
Jordan Pond is surrounded by the towering granite mountains that Acadia National Park is known for, but the biggest features are the North Bubble and South Bubble at the northern end of the lake.
Many people love to canoe and kayak just to get some pictures of these mountains from the water. They are roche moutonnees, meaning that they were created by the passing of a glacier, and they tower over the northeastern shoreline.
Things to Know Before Visiting
Getting to Jordan Pond is straightforward. You can take your car from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center, following the signs for the pond along Park Loop Road. Or, you can take the Island Explorer free of charge, which stops at Jordan Pond. A few other key points to keep in mind include:
- Jordan Pond has a number of re-vegetation areas, where professionals are working to restore the environment. Stay on the designated paths, and try not to disturb these areas.
- There is a designated parking area at the southern end of the pond. Do not park on Park Loop Road, or you could be ticketed, booted, or towed.
- If you walk on the rocks, remember that they can be slippery when wet.
- You are not allowed to swim or windsurf on the pond. Boats are limited to a maximum of 10 horsepower.
Jordan Pond is a popular area with plenty of fun things to do, but be sure to follow all posted signs and regulations.
Things to Do at Jordan Pond
Jordan Pond is perfect for a variety of fun activities, particularly for those who love history and nature. Here are a few of the top things to do include.
Canoeing & Kayaking
You can take a canoe or kayak onto the water for some truly pristine views. If you don’t have your own, some rental options are nearby. Pets are welcome in the park as well. Just be sure that your dog is on a leash. Other types of watercraft are welcome on Jordan Pond too.
Hiking
There are several hiking paths at Jordan Pond. The Jordan Pond Path follows the pond’s shore. The Bubble Loop is a popular option, and it will give you gorgeous views of The Bubbles at the northern end of the pond. If you want to hike the summits, you can take the Bubbles Nubble Loop.
Other hiking paths include the Carriage Roads, the 4-mile Pemetic Mountain Loop, and the 5-mile Jordan Cliffs Loop.
Jordan Pond House
You should also swing by Jordan Pond House. This famous house has been serving tea and snacks since the end of the 19th century, but it has plenty of other dining options as well.
Carriage Roads
Jordan Pond has more than 45 miles of carriage roads scattered throughout the park. You can get some exercise and enjoy the gorgeous weather without having to worry about cars or trucks.
It’s easy to spend an entire day exploring everything that Jordan Pond has to offer. Lots of people love to bring a picnic basket and enjoy lunch while relaxing on the shoreline.
More Things to Do Near Jordan Pond
Once you are done checking out Jordan Pond and Jordan Pond House, there are plenty of other fun things to do throughout Acadia National Park. Here are just a few examples.
Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain is one of the iconic features of Acadia National Park. It is approximately 1,530 feet tall, making it one of the tallest mountains on the Atlantic Seaboard. You can easily reach the mountain by car, but drive carefully because there are some steep cliffs in the area.
Schoodic Peninsula
This craggy shoreline with beautiful spruce and fir trees is actually located on the mainland. It’s a bit harder to get to, but it is a great way to explore Acadia without being mobbed by crowds the entire time.
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Even though a lot of people rave about the beautiful sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, you can get an amazing view of the same sunrise from the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse without having to fight the crowds.
The lighthouse was built during the late 1800s, and it is one of the most iconic lighthouses on the East Coast.
Dining Near Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park
The only true dining option in Acadia National Park is located at Jordan Pond. The Jordan Pond House serves fresh seafood, small snacks, and afternoon tea. If you are looking for dining options outside of the park itself, here are some popular Bar Harbor restaurants to visit.
Project Social
If you are looking for a delicious happy hour after visiting the park, consider visiting Project Social. This kitchen and bar serves delicious small plates and savory and sweet crepes.
Stewman’s Lobster Pound
It wouldn’t be a visit to Maine without eating some freshly baked lobster. Stewman’s is known for its authentic lobster bake. Its menu includes burgers and sandwiches, a raw bar, specialties, and a range of cocktails, wine, and craft beer.
Mama DiMatteo’s
When you are hungry for some authentic Italian food, Mama DiMatteo’s large portion sizes and regional Italian dishes will fill you up. This chef-owned restaurant has been serving the community since 1985 and uses local produce in all of its dishes.
Lodging Near Jordan Pond in Acadia
Where should you stay during your visit to Jordan Pond? There are some beautiful lodging options close to Acadia National Park.
Bar Harbor Inn
The rich history of the Bar Harbor Inn has made it one of the most popular lodging options near Acadia. You can enjoy delicious dining options and unparalleled ocean views at an affordable price.
Acadia Bayview Cottages
There are six waterfront cottages situated on Mount Desert Island, not far from Acadia. These comfortable, intimate cottages also come with cable, internet, and a washer and dryer on site.
Sand Bar Cottage
If you want to explore Bar Harbor Maine in addition to Acadia, the Sand Bar Cottage is located in downtown Bar Harbor in the historic district. It places you within walking distance of the top shopping and dining opportunities.
FAQs About Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park
What are the two mountains at the northern end of Jordan Pond?
These are called The Bubbles, and they were formed by the passing of a glacier many years ago.
Why are swimming and motorboats restricted on Jordan Pond?
The pond itself provides drinking water for Seal Harbor, which is why swimming is prohibited and motorboats are restricted.
How old is the Jordan Pond House?
The house began serving guests in 1893, but the original house burned down in 1979. The building that stands today was constructed in 1982.
Visit Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park
If you are planning a visit to Acadia National Park, there is a lot to see and do. However, you certainly need to swing by Jordan Pond.
The clean water, crisp air, and towering mountains that ring the pond are like nothing else in the area. Then, do not forget to visit Jordan Pond House for some delicious tea and an afternoon snack.
The pond has something for everyone, particularly those who love the outdoors. So, don’t forget to check out some of the hiking paths and carriage roads as well.