Length: 1 mi (1.6 km)
Elevation Gain: 292 ft (89 m)
Route Type: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Bubble Rock is a unique rock formation located near the peak of South Bubble Mountain in Acadia National Park. This formation overlooks Eagle Lake and Jordan Pond. Bubble Rock, deposited by glaciers, is precariously placed on the edge of the mountain. Fall is a beautiful time of year to visit this part of Acadia National Park as the colors of the fall leaves nicely contrast with the blue hues of Jordan Pond. If you are hiking to Bubble Rock anyway, I highly recommend including the summit of North Bubble before returning to the parking lot. The vista of Jordan Pond from the top of North Bubble is absolutely stunning and was one of my favorite views.
Accessing Bubble Rock in Acadia National Park
Starting Location: Bubbles Divide Trailhead, Mt Desert, ME
GPS (DD): 44.34111, -68.25056
The quickest way to access Bubble Rock, on South Bubble Mountain in Acadia National Park, is to park at the small parking lot located at the Bubble Divide Trailhead off of Park Loop Road. You will begin your hike on the Bubbles Divide Trail. When you reach your first junction, you will want to turn left towards South Bubble. I encourage you to go until you reach the summit of South Bubble (South Bubble Summit: GPS (DD) 44.33943, -68.25378) and then turn back and take the .1 m (.2 km) spur trail to Bubble Rock.
When you return to the Bubble Divide Trail, you can continue your journey back down towards the parking lot, or turn left to head up to the summit of North Bubble Mountain (North Bubble Summit: GPS (DD) 44.34381, -68.25685). This detour will add an additional .5 m (.8 km) in distance and 249 ft (75.9 m) in elevation, but it is well worth it.
If you want a much longer hike, or can’t find parking at the trailhead, you can park at the Jordan Pond Trailhead and hike around on the Jordan Pond Path until you reach the Bubble Divide Trail. Or you can take the Island Explorer Bus (from mid-June to mid-October) and do the 6.6 mi (10.6 km) Double Bubble Nubble Loop hike starting from Bubble Pond.
Find Your Favorite Location
No matter where you stop, Acadia National Park provides amazing landscape photography opportunities. Be sure to take your time and find your favorite location along the way. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife! Don’t forget to add detailed macro shots, change your perspective, and most importantly have fun.
Before making your trip, consider checking the official Acadia National Park website or contacting the park’s visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, accessibility, and any recent changes. As with any visit to a national park, it’s important to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while exploring this beautiful area. If you are able to go, I hope you enjoy your time photographing Bubble Rock and South Bubble!
Happy Travels!
Juventa, Co-Owner, National Park Photographer
Want to learn more about Acadia National Park? Check out these maps, guides & books:
- Best Easy Day Hiking Guide and Trail Map Bundle: Acadia National Park
- Carriage Roads of Acadia: A Pocket Guide
- Moon Acadia National Park: Seaside Towns, Fall Foliage, Cycling & Paddling (Travel Guide)
- Acadia National Park: The Complete Guide (Color Travel Guide)
- Historic Acadia National Park: The Stories Behind One of America’s Great Treasures
Please note, by making purchases through our affiliate links, you are supporting our mission to celebrate and showcase our National Parks and the photographers who frequent them. As an Amazon Associate, National Park Photographer earns from qualifying purchases at not cost to you. We appreciate your support.
