North Bubble in Acadia National Park
Introduction to North Bubble
North Bubble is one of the most recognizable peaks in Acadia National Park, rising just above the northern edge of Jordan Pond. Together with its southern twin, South Bubble Mountain, it forms the pair of rounded granite domes simply known as the Bubbles. While modest in size compared to Acadia’s higher summits, North Bubble’s location and setting make it a favorite for visitors looking to experience the park’s classic mix of mountains, water, and forest.
From the top of North Bubble Mountain, sweeping views open over Jordan Pond, with its crystal-clear waters stretching toward the Atlantic Ocean. To the west lies Bubble Pond, a quieter glacial pool tucked into the surrounding ridges and spruce forest. This combination of panoramic outlooks and accessible trails has made North Bubble one of the most photographed and most rewarding short climbs in Acadia.
North Bubble is often explored alongside its southern counterpart, with many hikers pairing the two into a single, compact outing. The contrast is part of the charm: while South Bubble draws attention with its dramatic Bubble Rock Trail, North Bubble provides a broader, less crowded vantage point. Together, they embody the rugged yet inviting character of Bubble Mountain Acadia.
Whether visited on its own or as part of a loop, North Bubble offers a snapshot of everything that makes Acadia special: granite ridgelines, sparkling ponds, and a sense of natural beauty that lingers long after the climb.
North Bubble Mountain Highlights
- North Bubble Mountain rises above Jordan Pond with sweeping views.
- Paired with South Bubble Mountain for classic Acadia hiking loops.
- Overlooks iconic Bubble Rock perched on the cliffs nearby.
- Trail connections lead to Bubble Pond and carriage roads.
- Perfect for sunrise or sunset hikes with panoramic sky colors.
- Short but rewarding climb, ideal for families and casual hikers.
- Links to bubble trail acadia and other scenic routes.
Why Hike North Bubble Mountain Acadia National Park
North Bubble Mountain is one of those places in Acadia that sneaks up on you. While most first-time visitors rush toward Cadillac for the sunrise or Beehive for the iron rungs, those who make the short climb up North Bubble are rewarded with something equally unforgettable — a wide-angle view over Jordan Pond, the twin shape of South Bubble right beside you, and the long ridgelines of Mount Desert Island stretching toward the sea. At just over 870 feet, it’s not the tallest peak in the park, but the payoff compared to the effort makes it a must-do.
The trailhead usually begins near Bubble Pond, a calm little lake tucked into the valley that serves as the perfect starting point. From there, the path climbs steadily but never feels punishing. In about half an hour, you’re standing at a summit that delivers some of the most photogenic scenery in Acadia. The water glistens below, the islands of Frenchman Bay dot the horizon, and if the light is right you’ll see why so many photographers swear by this hike.
Hiking North Bubble also gives you perspective. Looking south, you see South Bubble and the precariously perched Bubble Rock, a glacial erratic balanced on the cliff edge. Turn east and you’re rewarded with views of the Atlantic. Look west and the dense spruce forests seem endless. It’s this diversity of outlooks that makes the climb feel like three hikes in one.
For many hikers, North Bubble is the gateway to more. From its summit you can link to the Bubbles Trail, loop toward South Bubble, or extend into longer circuits that include Sargent and Penobscot. That’s the beauty of this area: whether you want a quick family walk or a half-day adventure, the trail system bends to your plans.
So why hike North Bubble? Because it’s the sweet spot of Acadia hiking — not as crowded as Cadillac, not as intimidating as Beehive, but every bit as rewarding. It’s approachable, scenic, and flexible, the kind of trail you’ll remember long after your boots are dusty.
Quick Win for Hikers
- Short but spectacular: A 30–40 minute climb with wide views of Jordan Pond and Frenchman Bay.
- Easy access: Trail begins at Bubble Pond on the Park Loop Road, making it simple to add to your day.
- Great perspective: From the summit you can see South Bubble, Bubble Rock, and multiple ridgelines in one glance.
North Bubble Mountain Trails
The trails that wind up North Bubble may be short, but they pack in a surprising variety of terrain and scenery. Most hikers begin at Bubble Pond, a peaceful body of water tucked beneath the Bubbles. From the parking area, the trail climbs gradually through spruce and fir forest before breaking onto open granite ledges. It’s a steady ascent but never overwhelming, which is why families and casual walkers often put it on their Acadia list.
The most direct route is the North Bubble Trail itself. At just under a mile round trip, it’s one of the most accessible summit hikes in the park. The first section hugs the forest floor, cool and shaded, before tilting upward into rocky switchbacks that lead to the ridge. Once you crest the granite, views of Jordan Pond appear almost suddenly, stretching out like a postcard below you. On clear days you can see all the way to Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands.
If you want to extend the adventure, the Bubbles Trail connects North Bubble to South Bubble. This loop allows you to experience both peaks in a single outing, with the added bonus of seeing Bubble Rock, Acadia’s famous glacial erratic. Another option is to link the Bubbles Trail with longer routes toward Sargent or Penobscot, turning a short morning climb into a full-day hike.
Because the trail network is so flexible, you can choose your experience. For a quick workout, take the direct North Bubble climb. For a family-friendly adventure, follow the loop that includes both Bubbles and Bubble Rock. And for seasoned hikers, the ridge connections make it easy to stitch together a bigger circuit. No matter which path you choose, the ascent remains approachable while the views stay unforgettable.
These trails also highlight one of Acadia’s best features: compact geography with huge rewards. You don’t need to spend hours climbing to reach panoramic vistas. In less than an hour, you can stand on a granite ledge with sweeping views that rival some of the park’s highest peaks. That combination of accessibility and reward is exactly why the North Bubble trails have become a favorite among both first-time visitors and Acadia regulars.
Trail Notes
- North Bubble Trail: Short, steady climb under one mile round trip, starting at Bubble Pond.
- Bubbles Trail Connection: Links North and South Bubble, with access to the famous Bubble Rock.
- Extended Routes: Combine with trails to Sargent or Penobscot for a longer ridge hike.
The Classic Loop: North & South Bubble Mountains
One of the most popular ways to experience the Bubbles is by linking them together in a single loop. The North & South Bubble Loop is short enough to tackle in a morning yet rich enough in scenery to rival Acadia’s longer treks. Starting from Bubble Pond or Jordan Pond, the loop offers a tour of everything the Bubbles are known for — granite summits, iconic views, and the park’s most famous glacial erratic, Bubble Rock.
Most hikers begin the loop at the Bubbles Divide Trailhead, a convenient access point from the Park Loop Road. From here, you can choose to summit North Bubble first or head directly toward South Bubble. Climbing North Bubble early gives you a sweeping perspective over Jordan Pond and the Atlantic beyond. The granite ledges here are broad and inviting, making them perfect for a snack stop or simply soaking in the views.
Continuing across the ridgeline brings you to South Bubble, where Bubble Rock steals the show. Perched precariously near the cliff edge, this massive boulder was deposited by glaciers thousands of years ago and has been puzzling visitors ever since. Standing beside it, you’ll feel both wonder and disbelief at how it remains balanced. From here, you can descend to Jordan Pond for the classic postcard view — the twin peaks of the Bubbles reflected in the clear water.
The loop itself is relatively short, around 1.5 to 2 miles depending on your starting point, but it feels bigger thanks to the variety of scenery. Families love it because kids get the thrill of reaching two summits and seeing Bubble Rock without an exhausting climb. More experienced hikers enjoy it as a warm-up or a companion to longer routes in the area.
What makes the North & South Bubble Loop special is its balance. It’s manageable yet dramatic, iconic yet peaceful. On busy days, you’ll share the trail with plenty of other hikers, but the broad ledges at the summits still allow room to spread out. For anyone visiting Acadia, this loop is an essential hike — not just because it’s famous, but because it perfectly captures the blend of effort and reward that defines the park.
Loop Highlights
- Two peaks, one trail: Summit both North and South Bubble in under two miles.
- Bubble Rock: The famous glacial erratic balanced on the edge of South Bubble’s cliff.
- Jordan Pond views: Classic reflections of the Bubbles in one of Acadia’s most scenic lakes.
Summit Views from North Bubble Mountain
The summit of North Bubble may be modest in height compared to Cadillac or Sargent, but the views from its granite crown are some of the most striking in the park. As you step out of the forest onto the ledges, Jordan Pond immediately stretches out beneath you, framed by the ridgelines of Penobscot and Pemetic Mountains. The water’s surface often looks like glass, reflecting the sky and the surrounding forests, making it one of the most photogenic perspectives in Acadia.
Looking south, your eye is drawn to the twin hump of South Bubble, standing so close that you can trace the ridgeline between the peaks. Just beyond it lies Bubble Rock, the famous erratic balanced at the cliff edge, which from North Bubble’s summit appears both tiny and precarious. To the east, the panorama widens, offering glimpses of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands. On clear days, you might even catch sight of Schoodic Peninsula across the water.
Turn west, and the scenery changes again. Here, dense spruce-fir forests roll toward Eagle Lake, and on the horizon, the higher ridges of Sargent and Penobscot dominate the skyline. This diversity of outlooks — south to iconic landmarks, east to the ocean, and west to the inland peaks — is what makes North Bubble feel so rewarding. You don’t just see one view; you see the many faces of Acadia in a single stop.
Another highlight is the quality of light. Early mornings often bathe Jordan Pond in soft pastels, while afternoons bring deep contrasts between the blue water and granite ledges. Sunset can be dramatic, with long shadows stretching across the pond and the ridges glowing gold. Photographers often return multiple times, chasing different moods of the mountain.
Despite its popularity, the summit rarely feels overwhelming. The ledges are broad, offering plenty of space to sit, snack, or simply let the scenery sink in. It’s the kind of view that encourages you to linger — not just to snap a photo, but to pause and appreciate the unique setting. For many hikers, the moment they stand atop North Bubble is when they truly feel the spirit of Acadia: wild, scenic, and endlessly varied.
Summit Perspectives
- Jordan Pond panorama: Iconic reflections framed by surrounding ridgelines.
- South Bubble and Bubble Rock: The twin peak and its famous glacial erratic in clear view.
- East and west horizons: From Frenchman Bay to the inland ridges of Sargent and Penobscot.
Sunrise and Sunset on North Bubble Mountain
North Bubble is one of those rare peaks in Acadia where both sunrise and sunset feel equally rewarding. Its position, perched directly above Jordan Pond, gives you a broad sweep of the horizon in multiple directions, which means you don’t need to pick just one golden hour — both work beautifully here.
At sunrise, the world feels calm and unhurried. The first light often breaks over Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands, painting the sky in pink and orange hues. From North Bubble’s ledges, Jordan Pond reflects this color show like a mirror, creating one of the most peaceful morning scenes in the park. Early risers usually find the trail quiet, with only the sound of birds and the rustle of trees for company. For photographers, this is the time when the water is most glasslike, producing reflections that look almost unreal.
As the day moves on, North Bubble becomes busier, but sunset offers another chance to experience its magic. Facing west, the view over Eagle Lake and toward Sargent and Penobscot Mountains becomes a canvas of deepening shadows and golden ridges. The granite ledges catch the last light of the day, glowing warm against the darkening forest. On clear evenings, the horizon often lights up with streaks of purple and red, especially in autumn when the air is crisp.
Sunset at North Bubble also has a different energy. While sunrise feels meditative, sunset often draws a small community of hikers who linger together, watching the day fade. Families bring snacks, couples find quiet spots, and photographers jockey for the perfect frame. The atmosphere is social yet peaceful, a reminder that Acadia’s beauty is best when shared.
Both sunrise and sunset highlight the versatility of North Bubble. In the morning, it’s serene and reflective; in the evening, it’s warm and dramatic. Either way, the hike is short enough to make it easy to catch one of these golden hours without committing to a long climb. If you only have time for one, sunset may offer the greater variety of views, but for those who can manage both, North Bubble proves why it’s considered one of Acadia’s most photogenic spots.
Golden Hour Highlights
- Sunrise calm: Reflections on Jordan Pond with pastel skies over Frenchman Bay.
- Sunset drama: Golden light on Eagle Lake and warm glows across nearby ridges.
- All-season appeal: Clear skies in summer or crisp colors in autumn both enhance the view.
Wildlife & Conservation on North Bubble
North Bubble may be known for its granite views, but spend some time on the trail and you’ll notice the mountain is alive with movement. The spruce-fir forest that cloaks its lower slopes provides habitat for a variety of birds, from warblers flitting through the canopy to the occasional bald eagle gliding over Jordan Pond. Chickadees and nuthatches are frequent companions on the climb, often darting between branches just above eye level. In spring and summer, listen carefully and you’ll hear the layered chorus of songbirds echoing through the woods.
The summit ledges bring a different kind of life. Chipmunks often scamper across the granite in search of crumbs left by hikers, while red squirrels scold intruders from the treetops. Although black bears are extremely rare in this part of Maine, smaller mammals like snowshoe hares, foxes, and porcupines inhabit the broader Mount Desert Island ecosystem. Hikers with a keen eye may also notice evidence of deer — tracks along the trail or a quiet presence in the woods at dawn.
Jordan Pond, sitting directly beneath the Bubbles, adds to the diversity. Loons, mergansers, and mallards are common on the water, and dragonflies hover along the shoreline in summer. The pond itself is one of the clearest in New England, protected by strict conservation rules that prohibit swimming and boating with motors. Its clarity isn’t just for show — it reflects decades of careful stewardship by the National Park Service.
Conservation plays a critical role in maintaining North Bubble’s balance of accessibility and natural integrity. The ledges at the summit are fragile, with thin soils that support hardy alpine plants and lichens. Staying on marked trails and avoiding trampling vegetation ensures these ecosystems survive for the next generation. Similarly, the trail system is carefully maintained to prevent erosion on the mountain’s steep granite slopes.
For hikers, North Bubble is more than a scenic climb. It’s a reminder of how natural beauty and responsible stewardship go hand in hand. Every birdcall, ripple on Jordan Pond, or patch of moss along the trail reflects a landscape that thrives because of ongoing protection. Pausing to notice the wildlife and the small details makes the climb as memorable as the summit views.
Nature Notes
- Birdlife: Warblers, chickadees, nuthatches, and loons near Jordan Pond.
- Small mammals: Chipmunks, red squirrels, foxes, and porcupines are occasional sightings.
- Conservation rules: Stay on marked trails and respect pond protections to preserve fragile ecosystems.
Photography on North Bubble Mountain
For photographers, North Bubble is a dream location. The climb is short enough that you can easily carry gear, yet the summit rewards you with views that rival the park’s tallest peaks. Its position above Jordan Pond creates a natural composition: water stretching into the distance, framed by granite ridges and forests. Whether you’re shooting with a professional camera or just a phone, it’s hard to take a bad picture here.
The most iconic angle is southward toward Jordan Pond, with South Bubble rising on the left and Penobscot Mountain in the background. On calm mornings, the water becomes a mirror, perfectly reflecting the mountains and sky. This is a favorite scene for sunrise photographers, who capture soft pink and orange tones layered above the pond. In autumn, the reflection is even richer, with fiery foliage lining the water’s edge.
Turn slightly east, and you’ll see Frenchman Bay dotted with islands, a perspective that adds variety to your collection. Wide-angle shots work well here, pulling together the contrast of inland lakes and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. To the west, the light shifts dramatically in the evening. Sunset silhouettes Sargent and Penobscot Mountains while painting Eagle Lake in golden tones. The granite ledges of North Bubble often glow at this hour, producing dramatic foregrounds for landscape shots.
South Bubble and Bubble Rock also play a role in North Bubble photography. From the summit, you can capture the boulder perched on the neighboring cliff, a unique subject that blends natural history with dramatic scenery. Many photographers include it as a focal point, emphasizing the scale and balance of the rock against the vast backdrop of Acadia.
Practical tips help too. Arriving early means fewer people in your frame and calmer pond reflections. A polarizing filter can deepen sky tones and reduce glare on the water, while telephoto lenses allow you to pick out details like the Porcupine Islands or the summit ridge of Cadillac in the distance. But even without equipment, North Bubble offers compositions that practically build themselves.
In the end, North Bubble photography isn’t just about the shots you bring home — it’s about slowing down. Sitting on the ledges, watching light shift across the pond, and waiting for that perfect frame is an experience as rewarding as the final image.
Photo Tips
- Best angle: South toward Jordan Pond with reflections of South Bubble and Penobscot.
- Golden hour: Sunrise for pastel tones, sunset for glowing granite ledges and silhouettes.
- Iconic subject: Capture Bubble Rock from North Bubble’s perspective for scale and drama.
Accessibility & Visitor Tips
One of the things that makes North Bubble appealing is its balance between accessibility and adventure. Unlike some of Acadia’s more strenuous climbs, the North Bubble Trail is short and moderate, making it suitable for families, casual walkers, and even those with limited time. While the trail does involve some rocky footing and steady uphill sections, it avoids the iron rungs or exposed cliffs that define hikes like Beehive or Precipice. For many visitors, that makes it the perfect way to experience summit views without feeling pushed to the edge of comfort.
Parking is available at several trailheads. The Bubbles Divide Trailhead on the Park Loop Road is the most direct, and it often fills quickly during peak hours. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon helps secure a space and reduces the chance of crowded trails. Another option is starting from Jordan Pond House, which allows you to combine the hike with a stop for the famous popovers and tea afterward.
For families, North Bubble is manageable with children who are comfortable on uneven terrain. The distance is short — less than a mile to the summit — but sturdy shoes and a small backpack with water and snacks make the climb more enjoyable. Because the granite ledges are exposed, it’s smart to bring sunscreen, even on cooler days, and a light jacket to account for changing winds at the top.
Those seeking solitude will find it best outside the busiest hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Early morning hikers are rewarded not only with quieter trails but also with the calmest pond reflections. Evenings offer fewer crowds too, and sunset from North Bubble is particularly rewarding.
Accessibility doesn’t just mean physical ease — it also refers to how seamlessly the hike fits into a day at Acadia. The short length allows you to pair North Bubble with South Bubble, Jordan Pond, or even a longer loop into the Sargent-Penobscot ridges. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or looking to extend your adventure, North Bubble adapts to your plans.
Ultimately, these visitor-friendly qualities are why North Bubble is often recommended for first-time park guests. It’s approachable without being boring, dramatic without being dangerous, and scenic without requiring an all-day commitment. In short, it delivers Acadia in miniature — a small climb with a big reward.
Visitor Tips
- Trail difficulty: Short, steady climb without technical sections — accessible to most hikers.
- Parking strategy: Arrive early or late to secure space at the Bubbles Divide Trailhead.
- Family friendly: Less than a mile to the summit, but bring sturdy shoes, water, and sun protection.
Getting to North Bubble Mountain
Reaching North Bubble is straightforward, and that’s part of what makes it such a popular choice for Acadia visitors. The most common starting point is the Bubbles Divide Trailhead, located along the Park Loop Road. This trailhead provides direct access to both North and South Bubble, making it easy to summit one or both in a single outing. Because of its convenience, the small parking lot fills quickly, especially during peak summer months. Arriving before mid-morning or later in the afternoon gives you the best chance of finding a spot.
Another approach is from Jordan Pond House, one of the most iconic stops in Acadia. From here, you can follow the Jordan Pond Path around the shoreline before climbing toward the Bubbles. This option is slightly longer but adds the reward of finishing your hike with tea and the famous popovers on the lawn overlooking the pond. It also gives you the classic view of the Bubbles from the water’s edge before heading up to see them from above.
A third option begins near Bubble Pond, a quiet lake nestled in the valley just below the mountains. The Bubble Pond Trail connects directly to the Bubbles Divide area, offering a more secluded approach compared to the busier trailheads. Many visitors stop at Bubble Pond simply to enjoy the peaceful setting — its calm water and strict protections (no swimming, no motorized boats) make it one of the cleanest lakes in New England. Starting your hike here gives you both tranquility and convenience.
The Park Loop Road itself makes access simple. Because the road circles much of Mount Desert Island’s eastern side, you can easily fit North Bubble into a day of sightseeing. Many visitors pair it with a morning stop at Sand Beach or Thunder Hole before driving inland for the Bubbles hike. Its central location also makes it a natural stop when planning loops through Sargent, Penobscot, or Jordan Pond trails.
Whichever route you choose, the logistics are easy to manage. Trailheads are clearly marked, distances are short, and the hike fits neatly into a half-day schedule. Whether you’re aiming for a quick climb, a family-friendly outing, or a scenic add-on to a longer adventure, North Bubble is one of Acadia’s most accessible and rewarding mountains to reach.
Getting There
- Bubbles Divide Trailhead: Direct access from Park Loop Road; arrive early for parking.
- Jordan Pond House: Combine shoreline views with the climb, finishing with popovers and tea.
- Bubble Pond access: A quieter trail start near one of Acadia’s cleanest and most scenic lakes.
Wrapping Up Your Visit
A climb up North Bubble may not take long, but it delivers one of the most memorable views in Acadia. From the summit, Jordan Pond stretches out like a mirror, with South Bubble standing proudly beside you and Frenchman Bay sparkling in the distance. It’s a snapshot of everything that makes the park special — water, forest, granite, and sky all in one frame.
What makes North Bubble unique is the balance it strikes. The trail is short and approachable, yet the reward feels grand. Families can manage it easily, while seasoned hikers still appreciate the chance to link it with South Bubble or extend into longer ridge circuits. Paired with a stroll along Jordan Pond or a stop at Jordan Pond House, it rounds out a classic Acadia day.
For many visitors, North Bubble becomes a place to return to. Sunrise brings quiet reflection, sunset fills the ledges with golden light, and every season changes the view just enough to make it fresh again. Though modest in height, the mountain offers an outsized reward, proving that you don’t have to tackle Acadia’s tallest peaks to feel the essence of the park.
Final Takeaways
- Signature view: Jordan Pond, South Bubble, and Frenchman Bay in one panorama.
- Flexible outing: Pair with South Bubble or Jordan Pond for a complete day.
- Always rewarding: A short hike worth repeating at sunrise, sunset, or in any season.
Before You Go
North Bubble may be a modest climb, but its sweeping views and easy access make it a highlight of any Acadia trip. Whether paired with South Bubble or enjoyed on its own, it leaves hikers with a memory of granite, forest, and sky perfectly woven together. Next time you’re in the park, let this short trail remind you why Acadia rewards every step, no matter the distance.
Explore Mountains in Acadia National Park →
Golden light from the summit of North Bubble Mountain, overlooking the forests and waters of Acadia.Further Reading & Resources
- Acadia National Park (NPS Official Site) – Authoritative park information, maps, and visitor updates.
- Acadia Hiking Trails (NPS) – Detailed trail descriptions and official guidelines for safe hiking.
- Bar Harbor Info – Local visitor hub for dining, lodging, and events near Acadia.
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