Jordan Pond Trail

 

This was my favorite hike in Acadia during this last trip. The Jordan Pond Path is a loop hike along the shore of Jordan Pond. The trail is around 3 miles long. I had perfect weather for this hike. There was hardly a cloud in the sky and the temperature was perfect in the low 70’s. The water was crystal clear and the surrounding mountains were the perfect backdrop. Part of the reason Jordan Pond is so clear is that the pond is a designated water source for the Mount Desert Water District.

The trail starts from a parking area just east of the Jordan Pond House. If hiking before lunch, I recommend hiking in a clockwise direction around the pond. This will put the sun to your back and also a nice backdrop of mountains with the pond in the foreground. Doing the hike as mentioned above takes you along the west shore first. This trail is very well maintained and nearly the entire west side has a wood plank system for a trail. A very easy and enjoyable section that is about 1.5 miles long. The north end of the pond is brief as the pond is more of an oval shape. You will cross a handmade wood bridge and continue on to the east shore trail. This again is well maintain, wide and flat. Not as scenic when hike in the morning.

If hiking in the late afternoon, I recommend doing it in a counter clockwise direction. Still the morning will offer the best photo opportunities. If you like mountain lake scenery, this path should not be missed.