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
Trail Tips
  1. 1

    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.

  2. 2

    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.

  3. 3

    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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