Hike Bubbles Nubble Loop

This hike traverses the summits of North Bubble, South Bubble, and Conners Nubble and crosses varying terrain of forest paths, steep granite sections, and a level carriage road. Visitors can enjoy views of Eagle Lake, Jordan Pond, Pemetic and Sargent Mountains, and the Cranberry Isles. This is a great option during the peak of fall foliage.

• Distance: 2.6 miles round trip

• Terrain: Forested paths, rocky granite ridgelines, stairs, packed gravel carriage roads

Hike Description

• Start at the Bubbles Divide Trailhead.
• The trail ascends quickly with steps leading up. At the junction, turn left towards South Bubble and Bubbles Divide Trail. This moderate out and back spur is .6 miles round trip to reach the summit of South Bubble and Bubble Rock.
• Return the way you came and from the signpost continue to North Bubble. The trail becomes steep with open granite ledges and is slick in wet weather.
• Reach the summit of North Bubble and enjoy views of Eagle Lake and the northern portion of the island before descending into the forest.
• Stay on the Bubbles Trail as it crosses the carriage road.
• Ascend for .1 miles to Conners Nubble for another view of Eagle Lake. Retrace your steps back on the carriage road.
• Turn left onto the carriage road and continue for .6 miles.
• Look for a path and small wooden footbridge. When Jordan Pond Carry trail intersects the carriage road, turn right onto it. Portions of the trail have wooden planks to avoid wet sections.
• The trail gently rises until it reaches the junction with the Bubbles Divide Trail. Turn left and return to the parking lot.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

This hike is 2.6 miles roundtrip. Duration, or how long a hike takes, depends on your pace, how frequently you stop, and the terrain. For an average pace, this hike takes 1 to 2 hours. 

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Activity Fee

No

Although this activity is free, a park entrance pass is required for all areas of the park from May 1 through October 31.

Location

The Bubbles

The Trailhead: Where to Begin

• Bubbles Divide Trailhead

Getting to the Trailhead

• By car: Starting from ME Route 3, turn off at the Hulls Cove Entrance to Acadia National Park. Turn left to follow the Park Loop Road and approximately 3 miles. Continue straight on the two-way section of the Park Loop Road, following signs for Jordan Pond. In 5 miles, The Bubbles parking lot is on the right.

• By bus: Take the Island Explorer (mid-June to October) to the Bubbles. Check bus schedules for times and routes.

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

The Bubbles Nubble Loop is not accessible. The trails have uneven footing, stairs, and short, steep sections. There are no accessible restrooms at the trailhead.

Bubbles Loop (Note: This profile does not include Conners Nubble)

Trail Safety Tips

• Check trail elevation profile before hiking.
• Bring a map, water, snacks, compass, and extra layers for unpredictable changes in weather.
• Reduce the chance of picking up ticks by staying in the center of the trail, and not stepping on soils and away from brush.
• Always do a tick check after visiting the park.
• Closed-toe, good traction shoes recommended because most trail surfaces are very unlevel.