Acadia National Park

Hike Bubbles

FamiliesFirst-Time VisitorsPhotographers
1.5 mi Distance
90 min Estimated Time
roundtrip Trail Type

What to Expect

Starting from the Bubbles Divide parking lot, you're immediately on a forested path that wastes no time gaining elevation. Within minutes, the trail turns into a scramble over exposed granite — nothing technical, but you'll be using your hands in a few spots. Spur trails branch off to North Bubble and South Bubble, and both summits deliver views of Jordan Pond that look almost artificially perfect, like someone Photoshopped a lake into the forest below. The real draw is Bubble Rock, a glacial erratic perched absurdly on the edge of South Bubble — a boulder the size of a delivery truck that looks like it should have rolled off ten thousand years ago. The whole thing takes about an hour and a half, making it one of Acadia's best effort-to-reward ratios. Perfect for hikers who want a summit experience without committing to a full day.
FamiliesFirst-Time VisitorsPhotographersSummit BaggersShort on Time

Safety Advisory

The granite slabs near both summits get dangerously slick when wet — if it rained overnight, expect slippery conditions even if the sky has cleared.

The drop-offs near Bubble Rock are unguarded and steep. Keep a close grip on kids and dogs near the edge of South Bubble.

Trail Details

Distance 1.5 miles round-trip
Estimated Time 90 min
Trail Type roundtrip
Pets Dogs allowed (leash required)
Season Year-round
Trailhead Hike Bubbles

Pro Tips

Trail Tip

The Bubbles Divide parking lot is tiny and fills by 9 AM in summer — take the Island Explorer bus (Jordan Pond stop) instead of circling the lot for twenty minutes.

Trail Tip

Hit South Bubble first for Bubble Rock, then continue to North Bubble. Most hikers do the reverse and run out of steam before the better viewpoint.

Trail Tip

For the best photos of Bubble Rock, position yourself downhill on the south side so Jordan Pond fills the background behind the boulder — afternoon light works best when the pond isn't in shadow.

Photos

Visitors sitting on a rock ledge overlooking a lakeNPS

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Explore Acadia National Park

4 campgrounds, 158 trails, 4.0M annual visitors

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