Hike Double Bubble Nubble Loop with Island Explorer
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The granite scrambles on both Bubbles are exposed and become dangerously slippery when wet or icy. After rain, the rock stays slick for hours — if the stone is dark and shiny, take it slow or consider bailing to the carriage roads instead.
South Bubble's summit has steep, unprotected drop-offs on the pond side. Keep dogs leashed and kids close — there are no guardrails, and the slope below the viewpoint is steeper than it looks from the top.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Take the Island Explorer's Jordan Pond stop as your starting point and hike north toward the Bubbles first — the steepest scrambles are better tackled with fresh legs, and you'll beat the late-morning crowds heading up from Bubble Rock parking lot.
The rock scrambles on South Bubble are slick when wet, so ditch the trail runners and wear boots with actual grip. Trekking poles are more hindrance than help on the granite slabs — stow them for the scramble sections and use your hands.
Conners Nubble is the sleeper summit on this loop. Almost nobody continues past the Bubbles, so you'll likely have the viewpoint to yourself. The north-facing overlook toward Eagle Lake is one of the best photography angles in the park, especially in late September when the surrounding hardwoods turn.
Photos
Photo by Ashley L. Conti, Friends of Acadia
