Bubble Mountain in Acadia: North & South Bubbles Above Jordan Pond
An Iconic Pair of Peaks in Acadia National Park
Bubble Mountain is one of the most distinctive features of Acadia National Park, instantly recognizable for its rounded granite domes rising above the northern shore of Jordan Pond. Visitors often search for “Bubble Mountain Acadia” when planning their trip, curious to experience the twin summits known as North Bubble and South Bubble. These peaks may not be the tallest in the park, but they capture much of what makes Acadia unforgettable — dramatic geology, sweeping water views, and trails that feel accessible yet rewarding.
South Bubble is the more famous of the two, largely because of Bubble Rock, a massive glacial erratic perched precariously on its eastern cliff. This boulder has become one of Acadia’s most photographed landmarks and a favorite stop for hikers who want to see nature’s balancing act up close. North Bubble, by contrast, offers a quieter climb and wide-open vistas across Eagle Lake and the island’s forested interior ridges.
Together, the Bubbles create an inviting area where short, family-friendly hikes lead to big payoffs. You can take the South Bubble Trail directly to the cliff edge, follow the North Bubble Trail Acadia to quieter overlooks, or combine both summits on the scenic Bubbles Trail Acadia loop. Just below, Bubble Pond Acadia reflects the domes in its still waters, offering a peaceful vantage point that complements the climbs above. Whether you come for the trails, the views, or simply to admire their presence over Jordan Pond, the Bubbles stand as icons of Acadia’s unique mountain-and-water landscape.
Highlights of Bubble Mountain Acadia
- Bubble Mountain Acadia with twin peaks of North Bubble and South Bubble
- Hike the South Bubble Trail or the North Bubble Trail Acadia for sweeping views
- Visit the famous Bubble Rock Acadia National Park, perched on South Bubble’s cliff
- Explore the scenic Bubbles Trail Acadia loop that links both summits together
- Relax at Bubble Pond Acadia, with reflections of the granite domes on calm water
- Enjoy shorter, family-friendly climbs with big rewards across Acadia’s mountains
- Take in panoramic overlooks of Jordan Pond, Eagle Lake, and forested ridges
Why Hike Bubble Mountain in Acadia
For many visitors, Bubble Mountain in Acadia National Park represents the perfect balance of effort and reward. The rounded granite domes known as North Bubble and South Bubble rise modestly above Jordan Pond, yet they deliver some of the most iconic views in the park. Unlike Cadillac, which can be driven to the summit, or Beehive, which demands climbing iron rungs, the Bubbles strike a middle ground. They’re short hikes that feel accessible for families and casual visitors, but still provide the thrill of standing high above the water with sweeping panoramas in every direction.
Part of the appeal lies in the variety of experiences packed into such a small area. The South Bubble Trail leads to the legendary Bubble Rock Acadia National Park, a massive glacial boulder teetering on the cliff edge that has fascinated generations of hikers. The North Bubble Trail Acadia, by contrast, is quieter, often less crowded, and offers wide-open views over Eagle Lake and the island’s forested interior. Linking both peaks via the Bubbles Trail Acadia loop gives hikers a satisfying sense of exploration without requiring a full-day commitment.
Below the domes, the shoreline of Bubble Pond Acadia adds another layer of charm. Its calm waters reflect the twin summits in perfect symmetry, offering a chance to admire the peaks without ever setting foot on a trail. This combination — dramatic geology, accessible paths, and picture-perfect scenery — makes Bubble Mountain one of Acadia’s most versatile destinations.
Whether you’re a family with children, a photographer chasing reflections, or a hiker ticking off classic Acadia trails, the Bubbles provide an experience that feels big without being overwhelming. They showcase Acadia’s essence: mountains meeting water, all within a short hike from the main road. For many, this is where the park truly comes alive — a reminder that size isn’t everything when it comes to unforgettable views.
Trail Notes: Why Hike Bubble Mountain
- Short hikes with sweeping views over Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake
- See the famous Bubble Rock Acadia National Park perched on South Bubble
- Enjoy peaceful overlooks from the North Bubble Trail Acadia
- Link both summits on the scenic Bubbles Trail Acadia loop
- Relax beside Bubble Pond Acadia with reflections of the domes
North Bubble Mountain in Acadia National Park
The quieter of the two domes that make up Bubble Mountain Acadia, North Bubble rises above Jordan Pond with a height that may not rival Cadillac or Dorr, but still delivers a breathtaking experience. The trail to its summit is short yet satisfying, drawing hikers who want sweeping views without the larger crowds that gather at South Bubble. For many, this climb feels like discovering a hidden side of the Bubbles — less dramatic in reputation, but no less rewarding in scenery.
The North Bubble Trail Acadia begins near Jordan Pond, sharing initial access points with its southern counterpart before branching off to the northern ridge. The ascent is gradual, weaving through spruce and pine, with granite steps that remind you of Acadia’s rugged character. Once at the summit, hikers are rewarded with wide-open vistas across Eagle Lake — one of the most expansive views of the park’s interior waters. On clear days, the ridgelines of Mount Desert Island stretch out like waves, layered in shades of green and gray.
Compared to the energy around Bubble Rock on South Bubble, North Bubble feels calmer, almost contemplative. It’s a place where you can pause without jostling for photo space, where the wind moves softly across the exposed ledges and the silence of Acadia feels unbroken. For photographers, the angle over Eagle Lake provides a perspective unique to this summit — especially at sunrise or during the fiery colors of fall.
Because of its shorter length and relatively moderate grade, the North Bubble Trail Acadia is popular among families and casual hikers. It offers a real “summit experience” without demanding hours of effort, making it one of the best introductions to Acadia’s mountain hikes. Pairing it with South Bubble on the Bubbles Trail Acadia loop creates a half-day adventure, but even on its own, North Bubble stands tall in Acadia’s hiking tradition.
Summit Snippets: North Bubble
- Climb the North Bubble Trail Acadia for quieter summit views
- Look out over Eagle Lake and Acadia’s forested ridges
- Less crowded than South Bubble, offering a peaceful climb
- Perfect for families and casual hikers seeking shorter trails
- Combine with South Bubble on the Bubbles Trail Acadia loop
South Bubble Mountain and Bubble Rock
If North Bubble is the quieter of Acadia’s twin domes, South Bubble Mountain is the star of the show. Rising directly above the northern shore of Jordan Pond, this peak is home to one of the park’s most photographed features: Bubble Rock Acadia National Park. The famous boulder, a massive glacial erratic, sits improbably balanced on the cliff’s edge — a reminder of the forces that carved this coastline thousands of years ago. Hikers come from around the world just to see it, often posing for photos that make it look like they’re holding the boulder in place.
The South Bubble Trail offers the most direct path to this landmark. It’s a short but sometimes steep ascent, with rocky steps and narrow sections that hint at Acadia’s rugged terrain. The payoff is quick: within less than a mile, hikers reach the ledges where Bubble Rock commands its cliffside perch. From here, the views stretch wide over Jordan Pond, its dark waters reflecting the rounded shoulders of the mountains beyond. On sunny days, the contrast of granite, forest, and deep blue water creates one of Acadia’s most iconic panoramas.
For those with energy to spare, the South Bubble Trail Acadia connects seamlessly to routes leading toward North Bubble or looping down into the Bubbles Trail Acadia circuit. This makes South Bubble both a rewarding standalone hike and a natural part of a longer adventure. Families often choose it for its relatively short distance, though children should be closely supervised near the cliff edges where Bubble Rock rests.
The cultural weight of this mountain is significant. Bubble Rock has appeared in postcards, travel guides, and visitor memories for over a century, becoming an unofficial symbol of the park. Standing beside it, you don’t just see a boulder — you experience the way glaciers shaped this land, leaving behind a marker of both fragility and endurance. South Bubble may not be the tallest peak in Acadia, but in many ways, it embodies the park’s spirit: dramatic, accessible, and unforgettable.
Trail Talk: South Bubble & Bubble Rock
- Climb the South Bubble Trail for direct access to Bubble Rock
- See the legendary Bubble Rock Acadia National Park balanced on a cliff
- Take in sweeping views across Jordan Pond
- Connect to the South Bubble Trail Acadia links toward North Bubble
- Capture one of Acadia’s most iconic photo opportunities
Trails on Bubble Mountain
One of the reasons Bubble Mountain Acadia is so popular is the variety of trails that converge on its twin summits. Whether you’re looking for a short family outing or a loop that ties together both peaks, the Bubbles offer routes that showcase some of Acadia’s finest scenery without demanding an all-day trek.
The South Bubble Trail is the best-known route, climbing quickly to the cliffside perch of Bubble Rock Acadia National Park. It’s steep in places, with granite steps and narrow passages, but the short distance makes it manageable for most hikers. The reward comes quickly: iconic views across Jordan Pond and the chance to stand beside one of Acadia’s most famous landmarks.
The North Bubble Trail Acadia branches off the same access area, climbing more gradually to quieter ledges with expansive views of Eagle Lake and the ridgelines beyond. Many hikers choose North Bubble for its serenity, especially in summer when South Bubble draws the bulk of the crowds.
For those who want to experience both peaks, the Bubbles Trail Acadia provides a scenic connector. This loop links North and South Bubble into a rewarding half-day hike that captures the best of both summits — the drama of Bubble Rock and the tranquility of Eagle Lake vistas. Adding in Bubble Pond Acadia below the domes makes the adventure even more diverse, combining mountain climbs with a peaceful waterside walk.
The trails are well-marked and accessible from the Jordan Pond area, one of the most visited hubs in Acadia. Because of their shorter length, they are ideal for families, casual hikers, or anyone looking to pack multiple highlights into a single day. Whether you take one summit or all, the Bubble trails demonstrate why this corner of Acadia is a favorite for visitors who want a big payoff from a small hike.
Quick Peaks: Bubble Mountain Trails
- Climb the South Bubble Trail for Bubble Rock and Jordan Pond views
- Take the North Bubble Trail Acadia for quiet Eagle Lake vistas
- Link both summits on the scenic Bubbles Trail Acadia loop
- Explore Bubble Pond Acadia below the domes for reflective views
- All trails start near the popular Jordan Pond access point
Bubble Pond Acadia
While the twin domes of Bubble Mountain Acadia dominate the skyline, the quiet waters of Bubble Pond Acadia sit nestled at their base, offering a completely different kind of beauty. This small, elongated pond lies between Cadillac Mountain and the Bubbles, providing a peaceful counterpoint to the often-busy trails above. Its reflective surface captures the rounded granite domes in perfect symmetry, making it one of the most photogenic yet underrated spots in the park.
The pond is easily accessible from the Park Loop Road, with a small parking area and a trail that follows the shoreline. Unlike the climbs up North and South Bubble, a walk here requires little effort. It’s a place where visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the scenery — whether strolling along the path, resting on the benches, or simply pausing to watch the light shift across the water. In autumn, when Acadia’s foliage ignites in shades of gold and crimson, Bubble Pond becomes a mirror of the season, reflecting the fire-colored slopes of the surrounding mountains.
Historically, the pond served as a carriage-road stop, and today it retains that sense of being slightly off the beaten path. While most visitors rush toward Jordan Pond, those who take the time to explore Bubble Pond Acadia National Park discover a quieter perspective. Here, the focus is not on conquering summits but on appreciating the subtler rhythms of Acadia: the ripple of a breeze, the call of a loon, or the stillness of a mirrored landscape.
Many hikers use the pond as a starting or ending point for longer loops, connecting trails that climb toward Cadillac or the Bubbles themselves. But it also rewards those who simply sit and look. For photographers, dawn and dusk bring particularly magical reflections. For families, it’s a restful pause before tackling more challenging hikes. For anyone, it’s a reminder that Acadia is as much about moments of peace as it is about dramatic vistas.
Trail Notes: Bubble Pond
- Discover the calm beauty of Bubble Pond Acadia below the Bubbles
- Easy shoreline walk with benches and peaceful views
- Perfect mirror reflections of North Bubble and South Bubble
- Stunning foliage scenes at Bubble Pond Acadia National Park in fall
- Connect to nearby trails toward Cadillac Mountain or the Bubbles
Summit Views from the Bubbles
One of the biggest rewards of hiking Bubble Mountain Acadia comes when you step onto the open ledges at the top of each dome. The views from North Bubble and South Bubble are among the most varied and dramatic in the park, packing an incredible sense of scale into relatively small peaks. Unlike Cadillac, which sprawls with broad summit zones, the Bubbles feel compact, delivering a sudden, almost surprising payoff as the forest falls away and the panoramas open wide.
From South Bubble Mountain, the eye is immediately drawn to Jordan Pond, stretching long and dark beneath the cliffs. On clear days, its surface shines with a deep blue, perfectly framed by the ridgelines that rise on the far shore. The perspective from South Bubble makes Jordan Pond look like a fjord, a reminder of how glaciers carved this landscape. To the east, the Atlantic sparkles in the distance, tying the mountain to the broader coast of Maine.
North Bubble, on the other hand, opens toward the interior of Mount Desert Island. From its ledges, hikers look down over Eagle Lake, one of the largest bodies of water in Acadia. This perspective is quieter, less showy than Jordan Pond, but no less beautiful. In fall, the lake is framed by fiery red and gold foliage, while in spring, fresh greens ripple across the ridges. At sunrise, the northern view catches the first light spilling across the island, while sunset paints Eagle Lake with warm reflections.
Together, these vantage points make the Bubbles special. Few hikes in the park offer such a contrast between ocean-facing views and interior lake panoramas within such a short distance. Photographers linger for hours, families spread picnics on the ledges, and hikers often remark that these outlooks capture Acadia’s unique balance of mountain and sea. Whether you come for the drama of South Bubble or the quiet majesty of North Bubble, the summit views ensure the Bubbles remain a highlight of any trip to Acadia.
Mountain Moments: Summit Views
- South Bubble overlooks the length of Jordan Pond toward the Atlantic
- North Bubble offers sweeping views over Eagle Lake and Acadia’s ridges
- Catch sunrise from North Bubble or sunset glow across Jordan Pond
- Enjoy vivid fall foliage from both summits of Bubble Mountain Acadia
- Compact peaks with outsized rewards — some of Acadia’s best panoramas
Wildlife and Nature Around Bubble Mountain
While most visitors come to Bubble Mountain Acadia for the views, the trails themselves are alive with the sights, sounds, and scents of Acadia’s natural world. The climb to both North Bubble and South Bubble passes through spruce–fir forest, a signature ecosystem of coastal Maine. The air often carries the resinous scent of pine, especially on warm summer days when the sun filters through the canopy. In autumn, the same slopes blaze with reds, oranges, and yellows as maples and birches join the display.
Closer to the ground, blueberry bushes cling to the rocky ledges, offering a seasonal treat for both hikers and wildlife. In July and August, the berries ripen, drawing birds, chipmunks, and sometimes even hikers who pause to sample the tiny bursts of flavor. The exposed granite surfaces are also home to hardy mosses and lichens, reminders of how life adapts in even the harshest conditions.
Birdlife is especially rich around the Bubbles. Songbirds like warblers flit through the branches in spring and summer, while hawks are often seen soaring overhead, riding thermals along the cliffs. Down by Bubble Pond Acadia, the haunting calls of loons echo across the water, adding to the sense of solitude. Bald eagles, an emblem of Maine’s coast, are occasionally spotted near Jordan Pond, their white heads stark against the green ridges.
Mammals are quieter but still present. White-tailed deer sometimes browse along the lower trails, and snowshoe hares may dart across paths in the early morning. Squirrels and chipmunks are constant companions, their chatter mixing with the rustle of leaves. In winter, tracks in the snow tell stories of unseen foxes or coyotes moving through the forest.
Together, these natural elements make hiking the Bubbles more than just a climb. They remind you that Acadia is a living landscape — not just granite domes and sweeping views, but a habitat where wildlife thrives and seasonal rhythms shape the experience. Every step is an opportunity to notice something small yet remarkable, grounding the grandeur of the scenery in the intimate details of nature.
Wild Acadia: Life on the Bubbles
- Spruce–fir forests line the trails of Bubble Mountain Acadia
- Blueberry bushes thrive on rocky ledges in midsummer
- Songbirds, hawks, and loons bring sound and movement to the peaks
- Look for deer, snowshoe hares, and playful chipmunks on the trails
- Seasonal colors — from summer greens to autumn fire — transform the Bubbles
Photography at Bubble Mountain
Few spots in Acadia lend themselves to photography as naturally as Bubble Mountain. Between the twin peaks, the reflective waters of Bubble Pond, and the dramatic perch of Bubble Rock Acadia National Park, the Bubbles provide endless opportunities for memorable shots. Whether you’re a casual visitor with a phone or a dedicated photographer carrying a tripod, this area rewards anyone willing to linger and frame the view.
The most iconic angle is from Jordan Pond, looking north where North Bubble and South Bubble rise like rounded sentinels above the water. This perspective has appeared on postcards, in travel guides, and in countless family photo albums. Early morning is the best time to capture the famous reflection, when the water is calm and the domes glow softly in the rising light. Evening, too, offers golden hues as the sun sets behind Mount Desert Island, painting the pond and peaks with warm color.
Up on the summits, the opportunities shift. From South Bubble Mountain, photographers can frame Bubble Rock against the vast backdrop of Jordan Pond and the Atlantic beyond. The precarious balance of the boulder, perched on the cliff, creates dramatic compositions that are instantly recognizable as “Acadia.” Meanwhile, North Bubble delivers broader, more serene panoramas over Eagle Lake. These views are particularly stunning in autumn when the lake is rimmed with fiery foliage.
Bubble Pond Acadia itself is a hidden gem for photography. Its narrow shape funnels reflections into tight compositions, often with perfect symmetry. On misty mornings, the pond takes on an ethereal quality, while in fall it mirrors bursts of crimson and gold. Because it’s less crowded than Jordan Pond, photographers can often work undisturbed.
Whether you’re after sweeping panoramas, iconic landmarks, or quiet reflective scenes, Bubble Mountain provides a microcosm of Acadia’s photographic charm. Every season adds a new layer — from the lush greens of summer to the frosted textures of winter — ensuring that no two visits yield the same image. For many, a single photo from the Bubbles becomes the image that defines their Acadia experience.
Trail Shots: Capturing the Bubbles
- Classic Jordan Pond view of North Bubble and South Bubble
- Frame Bubble Rock Acadia National Park against dramatic cliffside vistas
- Enjoy serene panoramas over Eagle Lake from North Bubble
- Photograph perfect reflections at Bubble Pond Acadia
- Best light: calm mornings for reflections, golden evenings for warm tones
Access and Visitor Tips for Bubble Mountain
Reaching Bubble Mountain Acadia is straightforward, thanks to its location along the popular Park Loop Road. Most hikers begin from the Jordan Pond area, which provides convenient access to both North Bubble and South Bubble Trail. Parking can be found at the Jordan Pond House lot, though it often fills quickly in summer. Arriving early in the day not only improves your chances of a space but also gives you calmer conditions on the trails and at the overlooks.
For those who prefer to skip the hassle of parking, the Island Explorer Shuttle is a reliable option in season. This free bus service connects major points in Acadia, including Jordan Pond, and is especially useful during peak summer months when congestion is at its highest. Shuttle stops are clearly marked, and riding them helps reduce traffic within the park.
The trails themselves are short but rocky, with sections that climb steeply on granite steps. Good footwear is recommended, and children should be closely supervised near the cliff edges, particularly around Bubble Rock Acadia National Park. Weather can also influence the experience: fog sometimes drifts in from the Atlantic, obscuring views, while wind can make the exposed ledges feel more dramatic. Always check the forecast before heading out and carry water even for short hikes.
Best times to hike the Bubbles are mornings and late afternoons. Mornings offer still reflections on Jordan Pond and Bubble Pond Acadia, while afternoons often bring warmer light across the ridges. Weekdays see fewer crowds than weekends, especially in July and August. Spring and fall bring cooler air and vivid colors, while winter transforms the Bubbles into quiet, snow-dusted domes for those prepared with the right gear.
Above all, remember that the Bubbles deliver outsized rewards for their modest height. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy their famous views and landmarks without feeling rushed or crowded. For many visitors, hiking North and South Bubble becomes a highlight not just of Acadia, but of their entire Maine adventure.
Trail Talk: Access & Tips
- Start from Jordan Pond for easy access to both Bubbles
- Use the free Island Explorer Shuttle during peak season
- Wear sturdy footwear for steep granite steps and rocky trails
- Supervise children closely near Bubble Rock Acadia National Park
- Best times: calm mornings for reflections, late afternoons for golden light
Wrapping Up Your Visit
A hike on Bubble Mountain Acadia is a reminder that in Acadia, size doesn’t determine significance. These rounded domes may not be the tallest peaks in the park, but they deliver some of its most memorable experiences. From the thrill of standing beside the precariously perched Bubble Rock Acadia National Park, to the sweeping views over Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake, the Bubbles pack more reward into a short hike than almost anywhere else on Mount Desert Island.
What makes the Bubbles special is their balance. South Bubble Mountain gives drama — steep cliffs, famous landmarks, and vistas that stretch toward the Atlantic. North Bubble, in contrast, offers calm — quieter trails, spacious ledges, and a chance to gaze across the island’s interior lakes. Add in the reflective beauty of Bubble Pond Acadia at their base, and you have a complete picture of what makes this corner of Acadia so captivating: rugged peaks, tranquil waters, and a sense of harmony between land and sea.
Whether you come for a family outing, a photography session, or simply to enjoy a quieter hike away from Cadillac’s crowds, the Bubbles deliver. They are approachable yet dramatic, accessible yet rewarding. And for many visitors, they end up being the place that lingers longest in memory — the spot where Acadia’s character feels most alive.
Wrapping Up Your Visit
- Compact peaks that deliver outsized views across lakes and ocean
- Balance of drama at South Bubble and calm at North Bubble
- Bubble Pond provides a peaceful, reflective waterside option
- Accessible hikes suitable for families, with shorter trail distances
- Seasonal highlights from blueberry picking in summer to vivid fall foliage
Final Footsteps
A hike on Bubble Mountain Acadia blends short trails, sweeping views, and the park’s most famous landmark — Bubble Rock. Whether you climb one dome or both, or simply pause at Bubble Pond, the Bubbles capture Acadia’s perfect mix of mountains and water. To continue exploring, head back to the other Mountains in Acadia National Park and discover more of the park’s iconic peaks.
← Back to Mountains in Acadia National Park
Useful Resources for Bubble Mountain
Planning your hike on Bubble Mountain Acadia is easier with the right maps and local guidance. These resources will help you find trailheads, shuttle stops, and official park updates before you set out.
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