Place
Why hike it
If you like your Acadia summits served on open granite with sweeping views, this north-side climb delivers. Expect a quick, demanding ascent that trades shade for big vistas as you gain the ridge. The payoff: a broad, bald summit with 360-degree looks at Eagle Lake, Jordan Pond, the Bubbles, and out to the Atlantic.
Route and terrain
From the Bubble Pond area on Park Loop Road, follow blue blazes through dense conifers before breaking onto open ledges. A distinctive mid-route split offers two flavors: the “ravine” option dives into a narrow gorge with wooden ladders (often damp in spring or after rain), while the “ledge” option sticks to steep granite slabs. They rejoin just shy of the top. The surface is a mix of forest path, bouldery scrambles, and grippy pink granite. Length is about 1.1 miles one way to the summit, with roughly 980 feet of gain—short, steep, and spicy.
Difficulty and who will enjoy it
This is a hard, advanced hike with sustained steepness, scrambles, and ladder sections. It’s not beginner-, toddler-, or dog-friendly. Confident hikers will love the variety and the quieter feel compared to Cadillac Mountain, especially on shoulder-season weekdays.
Scenery, geology, and what to look for
Pemetic’s broad dome is classic, glacially sculpted granite. Watch for Acadia’s historic rock cairns guiding the way across open ledges. Views are the headline here: Eagle Lake sprawls below, Jordan Pond sits framed by the Bubbles, and on clear days the Atlantic horizon seals the deal.
Planning tips
- Parking at Bubble Pond is limited—arrive early or use the Island Explorer shuttle when operating.
- Wear real hiking footwear; wet granite and the ravine’s ladders get slick. Fog can erase views and rain increases fall risk.
- Popular loop: ascend North Ridge, descend a different Pemetic ridge, then use the carriage roads to return to Bubble Pond for an easy navigational finish.
Best time to hike
Late spring through fall is prime for dry rock and clear views. Expect wet or even running water in the ravine after rain and during spring melt. Winter is for experienced hikers only due to ice on slabs and exposure on the ledges.
Pros
- Choose-your-own-adventure middle section: ravine with ladders or airy ledges
- Easy loop options using nearby carriage roads back to Bubble Pond
Cons
- Ravine can hold water and become slick after rain or in spring
- Parking at Bubble Pond fills fast; logistics can be a hassle
Parking
Bubble Pond parking area on the Park Loop Road; arrive early or use the Island Explorer shuttle when available.
Caution
Steep granite slabs and ladders; the ravine holds water in wet seasons. Rocks are slick when wet or foggy. Not recommended for dogs or young kids.
