Hike Pemetic Mountain Loop
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The iron rungs and steep granite slabs on the ascent are genuinely exposed — a fall here means broken bones, not just scraped palms. Keep three points of contact on the ledges and skip this route entirely in rain or ice.
The summit is completely bald granite with no shade or wind protection. On hot summer days, dehydration sneaks up fast, and in fall, wind chill on top can be twenty degrees colder than the trailhead. Layer accordingly.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Start at the Jordan Pond North parking lot rather than the boat launch — it's less chaotic during peak season and shaves a few minutes off the approach. Arrive before 9 AM in July and August or you'll be circling the lot like a vulture.
The iron rungs on the south ridge can be slick after rain or morning dew. Wear shoes with sticky rubber soles — trail runners with good grip work, but smooth-soled boots will have you white-knuckling the hardware.
Hit the summit around mid-morning for the best light on Jordan Pond and the ocean beyond. The afternoon sun backlights the western view and washes out photos. On the descent, pause where the trail crosses the Pemetic Northwest connector — there's a hidden ledge outlook most hikers blow right past.
Photos
NPS
