Cedar Swamp, Penobscot, North Bubble, South Bubble, and Pemetic Mountains (Acadia National Park)

Cedar Swamp, Penobscot, North Bubble, South Bubble, and Pemetic Mountains (Acadia National Park)

Hike Type: Loop
Distance: 9.4 miles
Elevation: 2753 feet
Time: 6 hours, 18 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Acadia Ascents; Wicked Wild 25; Summit Beer Society (x2)

The Hike

Last hike of my trip! I flirted with doing a small sunrise hike on my last morning, but once I got in bed I quickly decided against that. I have been especially excited for this one partially for the distance, partially for the views, but mostly because of the anticipated challenge:reward ratio. I knew these mountains were going to deliver some incredible views, and I knew I was going to have to work for them. The day started with another 4:00am wakeup, and I arrived at the Jordan Pond parking lot just after sunrise. I did my favorite morning task - used the composting toilet, suited up, made nods at the other few people in the parking lot at 5:00am, and got to hiking!

 

There is a short path from the parking lot that links up with the Jordan Pond Path. There are views right away of Jordan Pond, Penobscot Mountain, and the Bubbles. There were a few groups of people also on the Jordan Pond Path, but nothing compared to what I'd see later in the day. After walking past the Jordan Pond House and the dam, I joined the carriage road at marker #17, following signs for Amphitheater/Around Mtn. This was the longest stretch of the hike, about two miles of gentle walking along the carriage road. There are a few brief views along the road and I saw a lovely deer near the Amphitheater. At the Amphitheater bridge, which is apparently the longest in Acadia, there is a spur path down to the Amphitheater Trail.

 

The Amphitheater Trail goes under the grandiose bridge and follows Harbor Brook, which was gently flowing on this day. The climb from here is steep and rocky but eventually opens up to some nice partial views of the area between the mountains, which I think is technically the amphitheater. After passing more views, the trail dips down to the Birch Spring before a short, steep scramble up to Cedar Swamp Mountain on the Sargent South Ridge Trail. At the top of the scramble, I saw a person for the first time since Jordan Pond, and he said he was thrilled to see me because he had just lost the trail - I was happy to help! From there, there is a short spur path to the summit of Cedar Swamp Mountain that offered magnificent views in all directions. I took my sit, snack, and first summit drink of the day before taking a billion more photos. 

 

I backtracked to the Birch Spring and then continued my journey on the Sargent South Ridge Trail, which rewarded nearly every section of climbing with a great view. The next trail junction is with the Penobscot Mountain Trail that leads to Sargent Pond and then the summit of Penobscot Mountain. The pond was still and remote and had the song of a dozen bullfrogs. At the junction with Deer Brook Trail, the Penobscot Mountain Trail climbs right up to the summit of Penobscot Mountain which was just a magical peak. Bare rock face with views in all directions. A huge highlight for me was seeing my next three mountains from the summit: South Bubble, North Bubble, and Pemetic. 

 

I had originally planned to backtrack and take the Deer Brook Trail all the way down, but I saw another hiker take the Penobscot East Trail down which looked gorgeous so I did the same - it was an excellent choice. The trail descends on the ledges facing Jordan Pond offering one view after another. There are a few comically steep scrambles that I had to toss my poles down for, but the trail quickly calmed down after that. The Penobscot East Trail terminates at the Jordan Cliffs Trail - the section that is not closed for the nesting falcons. There were trail crews doing some maintenance on blowdowns on this section, but I was able to get by without bothering them and they were incredibly nice. I then took the Deer Brook Trail to complete the descent. The Deer Brook Trail crosses a carriage road and goes below a gorgeous bridge before terminating back at the Jordan Pond Path.

 

The Jordan Pond Path crosses the north shore of Jordan Pond, and there were plenty of people around. There was a beautiful family of mergansers (ducks with spiky hair was the name I gave them) swimming about. I snapped a few pictures before leaving the crowds and hiking the Bubbles Divide Trail, which was entirely made up of large rocks, which quickly got my heart rate back up. I saw no one on the Bubbles Divide between Jordan Pond Path and Bubbles Trail, but immediately found the entire population on the Bubbles Trail. South Bubble was up first, which had an easy trail to the top, but many, many people. The summit sign was currently being replaced by a trail crew, so I hiked to the view point and then doubled back. The North Bubble side of the Bubbles Trail wasn't too far away, and this was a steeper, more rugged climb to the top. Like most climbs in the park, it wasn't a long climb. The summit area was more secluded, but still full of people. I wandered to an area off trail where I had some more privacy to sit and snack (and wring out my shirt). The hike back down the Bubbles Trail and Bubbles Divide to the parking area off of Park Loop Road felt like swimming up stream with all the people, but I was quickly back to myself once I crossed the road to the Pemetic Northwest Trail.

 

The Pemetic Northwest Trail is on the Wicked Wild 25 list, and while I didn't fear for my life, I would not want to come down this trail (even though I passed a few people who did). This trail was roughly split into three sections: rocks, ravine/ledge, and final push. The first section was similar to the Jordan Pond side of the Bubbles Divide - just large rocks in every direction. There was one tricky scramble where a wooden railing was installed. After, there is a unique split in the trail. One section heads into a ravile and one up ledges, both parallel each other. It seemed like the ravine side was less used, and would be best in rain when it's already wet (I guess?). The ledges side is what I took, and was true to its word. Steep ledge. STEEP ledge! Again, thrilled I was not going down this area. The final push was at a more moderate grade and soon opened up to some great views, and eventually the breathtaking summit area.

 

I spent a nice long break at the summit. I could have taken a billion photos (as per usual) - it was so beautiful. I had my ham and cheese wrap, lots of electrolytes, a nice vodka mule, and a long sit. There were a few others enjoying the view, but I was able to find a spot just off trail (that of course, did not disturb the fragile vegetation). At this point, I was SO glad that I decided to do Day Mountain and the Triad the day before, because while I was in awe, I was also ready to be done. The Pemetic South Ridge Trail was just gorgeous, and it slowly dipped down to intersect with the Bubble & Jordan Ponds Path, which was my final leg for the day. The trail continued to easily descend, and I passed another trail worker carrying massive pieces of wood up trail. The path crossed Park Loop Road one more time, and then I was back at the Jordan Pond Path! The pond views are excellent, but the literal hundreds of people made it less enjoyable. I was back at the car before I knew it, and the other cars were like vultures waiting for me, which was very annoying. A nice southernly gentleman commented on the Hot Pockets that I left on my dash board in hopes I'd have a warm snack at the end, and I guess it worked? They were fully heated, but very soggy. Also not sure if it was legally safe to eat, but it tasted good!

 

I spent the rest of the day at the motel watching TV and just relaxing - it was lovely. I had a classic Circle-K dinner, and decided to take it easy and just go for a walk around Bar Harbor on my last morning. I was excited to put a bow on this trip, I was incredibly proud of myself for achieving my goal, and I was ready to be back in my own bed.

Step-By-Step

• Park at Jordan Pond.
• Follow walking path to Jordan Pond Path, turn left on Jordan Pond Path.
• At Carriage Road marker #14, follow sign for Ampitheater on Carriage Road.
• At Carriage Road marker #21, follow sign for Around Mt.
• At Ampitheater Bridge, cross bridge, descend to stream, turn left onto Ampitheater Trail (hike under bridge). 
• Follow Ampitheater Trail to jct. with Sargent South Ridge Trail/Hadlock Brook Trail, turn left onto Sargent South Ridge Trail towards Cedar Swamp Mountain.
• At next junction, follow unnamed trail to Cedar Swamp Mountain Summit.
• Return to Ampitheater/Sar. S. Ridge Trail/Hadlock Brook junction, continue on Sargent South Ridge Trail.
• At junction with Penobscot Mountain Trail, turn right onto Penobscot Mountain Trail towards Sargent Mountain Pond.
• At junction with Deer Brook Trail, continue on Penobscot Mountain Trail towards Penobscot Mountain Summit.
• At Summit, descend towards Jordan Pond on Penobscot East Trail.
• At terminus, continue left on Jodan Cliffs Trail.
• At terminus, turn right onto Deer Brook Trail.
• Cross Carriage Road and hike Deer Brook Trail to terminus.
• At terminus, turn left onto Jordan Pond Path.
• Cross footbridge, turn left onto Bubbles Divide.
• At next junction, turn right onto Bubble Trail toward South Bubble, summit, and return.
• At next junction, turn left onto Bubble Trail towards North Bubble, summit, and return.
• Continue on Bubbles Divide to parking area.
• Cross Park Loop Road and enter Pemetic North West Trail.
• At Ravine/Ledge split, stay right for ledges.
• Continue on Pemetic North West Trail.
• At terminus, follow Pementic North Ridge Trail toward Pementic Mountain Summit.
• Continue on Pemetic South Ridge Trail until terminus.
• At terminus, turn right onto Bubble & Jordan Ponds Path.
• Cross Park Loop Road, continue on Bubble & Jordan Ponds Path.
• Turn left onto Jordan Pond Path, continue back to parking lot.

Trail Descriptions from Maine Mountain Guide

Jordan Pond

"The Jordan Pond area is a central starting point for many good hiking trails, ranging from Pemetic Mtn. to the east, around Jordan Pond to the Bubbles in the north, and to Penobscot Mtn. and Sargent Mtn. to the west. Jordan Pond, its deep, sparkling waters considered some of the cleanest in Maine, is also known for its fine dining and scenic view of the Bubbles and Penobscot Mtn., Jordan Pond House has been serving ANP visitors since 1871. Hiker parking is discouraged here due to congestion during the busy summer months. A large trailhead parking lot with a toilet is on Park Loop Rd., just 0.1 north of Jordan Pond House or 7.7 mi. south of Hulls Cove Visitor Center. The Island Explorer bus is another good option for reaching trails in this busy area of the park."

 

Amphitheater Trail

  "This trail connects Hadlock Brook Trail to Sargent South Ridge Trail high on Cedar Swamp Mtn. The start of Amphitheater Trail is 1.1 mi. west of Jordan Pond House, via a short walk on a carriage road from Asticou & Jordan Pond Path."

    "From Asticou & Jordan Pond Path, walk north on the carriage road, which quickly crosses Penobscot Mtn. Trail. Continue on the carriage road, paralleling Harbor Brook. In 0.3 mi., cross Harbor Brook Bridge; Amphitheater Trail begins on the right immediately after the bridge."

    "Amphitheater Trail traces a route along Harbor Brook, crossing it numerous times before and after passing under Amphitheater Bridge (the largest carriage road bridge in the park) at 0.7 mi. Beyond the bridge, the trail climbs more steeply through an area known as the Amphitheater to Birch Spring and the jct. with Sargent South Ridge Trail at 1.3 mi. To the left, it is 0.1 mi. to the top of Cedar Swamp Mtn.; to the right, it is 1.1 mi. to the summit of Sargent Mtn. Ahead, Amphitheater Trail descends to end at Hadlock Brook Trail at 1.7 mi."

 

Cedar Swamp Mountain

    "This scenic peak, the southernmost of a jumble of six mountains west of Jordan Pond, is just west of Penobscot Mtn. and features a long south ridge that divides the large and remote ravine known as the Amphitheater from the Upper and Lower Hadlock ponds. The Amphitheater and Sargent South Ridge trails cross near the Cedar Swamp summit."

 

Sargent South Ridge Trail (Excerpt)

    "[...]. Beyond, the trail rises over a wooded shoulder, breaks out of the trees, and passes just southeast of the summit of Cedar Swamp Mountain at 1.3 mi. (a short spur leads left to the summit). Just ahead, the trail drops to cross Amphitheater Trail at Birch Spring. Sargent South Ridge Trail then leaves the woods and rises sharply to another jct. at 1.9 mi. Here, Penobscot Mtn. Trail enters from the right. [...]."

 

Penobscot Mountain Trail (Excerpt)

    "[...]. Penobscot Mtn. Trail then climbs gradually over open granite ledges to the summit, where the East Trail enters. Beyond, Penobscot Mtn. Trail continues north, descending to a rugged notch and the jct. with Deer Brook Trail. Penobscot Mtn. Trail turns left here and soon reaches pretty Sargent Mtn. Pond. From the pond, the trail makes a short climb to join the Sargent South Ridge Trail (leads 1.2 mi. right [north] to the top of Sargent Mtn.)."

 

Penobscot Mountain

    "This mountain, the fifth highest in ANP, rises steeply west of Jordan Pond. The long and high Jordan Ridge atop the sweeping face of Jordan Cliffs offers commanding panoramic views in every direction. Sandwiched between ME 3/198 and Jordan Pond, the two major trailheads, Penobscot Mtn. is part of a compact group of six peaks that are home to an intricate network of trails allowing for many fun and interesting hike combinations."

 

Deer Brook Trail

    "Deer Brook Trail starts from Jordan Pond Path at the north end of Jordan Pond. The trail can be accessed by hiking either east or west around the pond via Jordan Pond Path from Jordan Pond House, or by climbing over the Bubbles on Bubbles Divide Trail from the Bubble Rock parking area on Park Loop Rd. Deer Brook Trail provides good access to the summits of Penobscot Mtn. and Sargent Mtn."

    "From Jordan Pond, Deer Brook Trail climbs rock steps along Deer Brook, crossing it several times below the double-arched Deer Brook bridge. Cross the carriage road, then climb wooden staircases and rock steps alongside Deer Brook to reach a trail jct. Here, Jordan Cliffs Trail departs left, and Sargent East Cliffs Trail leaves to the right. Ahead on Deer Brook Trail, ascend the narrow valley, crossing the brook several more times before bearing away from it. Above a set of rock steps, the angle eases and in a notch ahead, reach the end of the trail at the jct. with Penobscot Mtn. Trail. Sargent Mtn. Pond is just a 5-min walk ahead; the open summit of Penobscot Mtn. is 0.1 mi. left."

 

Jordan Pond Path

    "[...]. Winding along the northeast shore at the base of South Bubble, reach the jct. with Bubbles Divide Trail at 1.7 mi. This trail climbs to Bubbles Gap, a high notch between North Bubble and South Bubble. Beyond, Jordan Pond Path crosses a picturesque footbridge over an inlet to reach the jct. with Deer Brook Trail, which leads to trails on Penobscot and Sargent Mtn."

 

Bubbles Divide

    "Bubbles Divide Trail bisects South and North Bubble on its route west to Jordan pond. The trail offers the shortest route to the summit of either mountain. From its start, the trail drops a short distance across Jordan Pond Carry, which connects Jordan Pond with Eagle Lake. Beyond, the wide and well-used trail climbs toward the small notch between the Bubbles. Here, the northern section of Bubbles Trail leaves to the right (leads 0.3 mi. to North Bubble). Follow the southern section of Bubbles Trail in the notch proper; from this point, it climbs 0.3 mi. to the top of South Bubble and a short spur leading out to Bubble Rock."

        "Continuing west, Bubbles Divide Trail descends, on steep, rocky trail at times, to the north shore of Jordan Pond, ending at the jct. with Jordan Pond Path. To the left, it is 0.9 mi. back to the Bubble Rock parking area via Jordan Pond Path and Jordan Pond  Carry."

 

Bubbles Trail

        "This trail connects the north shore of Jordan Pond with Eagle Lake, taking the high route and climbing over the Bubbles and Conners Nubble en route. It leaves from Jordan Pond Path at a point 0.5 mi. from Bubble Rock parking area on Park Loop Rd. via Bubbles Divide Trail and Jordan Pond Carry.

        [...]. It levels off just before reaching the summit of South Bubble at 0.4 mi. Here, the views of Jordan Pond and beyond from the wide, open ledges below the summit are spectacular. At the tummit, a short spur trail leads right to Bubble Rock, the large and unmistakable glacial erratic perched on the edge of the cliff face.

        From the summit of South Bubble, the trail descends moderately over ledges to a notch, then turns right, traveling with Bubbles Divide Trail for a short distance before turning left and making a steep climb to the summit of North Bubble. Bubbles Trail then continues north past the summit, descending at an easy pace over open ridgeline for a distance."

  

North & South Bubble

    "The finely shaped, almost symmetrical North Bubble and South Bubble rise above the north end of Jordan Pond. Formerly covered with heavy tree growth, they were swept by fire in 1947, leaving many open views. The 110-ton glacial erratic precariously perched atop the east face of South Bubble is Bubble Rock, one of the park's most recognized natural features. The best access is from the Bubble Rock parking area on the west side of Park Loop Rd., 1.1 mi. south of Bubble Pond at 6.2 mi. south of Hulls Cove Visitor Center."

 

Pemetic Northwest Trail

    "This trail begins at the Bubble Rock parking area on the west side of Park Loop Rd., 6.2 mi. south of Hulls Cove Visitor Center. It enters the woods east of the road and climbs through thick forest cover. Sometimes following a rocky streambed, the trail ends at a jct. with Pemetic North Ridge Trail north of the summit."

 

Pemetic Mountain North Ridge Trail

    "[...]. From there, the trail climbs steadily through the forest to a jct. with Pemetic Northwest Trail high on the mountain at 1.1 mi. Pemetic North Ridge Trail reaches the summit of Pemetic Mtn. and the jct. with Pemetic South Ridge Trail at 1.2 mi. The summit offers excellent views of the Triad, Cadillac Mtn., Jordan Pond, Penobscot Mtn., and Sargent Mtn."

 

Pemetic Mountain

    "This mountain, the fourth-highest in ANP, is located roughly in the center of the eastern half of Mt. Desert Island. Its long ridgeline offers some of the best panoramic views in ANP. Trails up the west side are short and relatively steep, whereas routes from the north and south are more gradual and wooded."

    "For the trails from the south, park at the Jordan Pond trailhead parking area; from the north, park at Bubble Pond; and from the west, park at Bubble Rock. Gain access to all parking areas via Park Loop Rd. Summer crowds tend to fill these lots quickly, so plan to arrive early or ride the Island Explorer bus."

 

Pemetic South Ridge Trail

        "This trail climbs to the summit of Pemetic Mtn. via the south ridge. The trail begins at Bubble & Jordan Ponds Path, 0.4 mi. east of its jct. with Jordan Pond Path and 0.8 mi. east of the Jordan Pond trailhead parking area. Pemetic South Ridge Trail climbs steadily to a jct. at 0.6 mi. with Pemetic East Cliff Trail, which enters from the right. Continuing straight ahead, it climbs over open ledges with spectacular views to reach the summit and the jct. with Pemetic North Ridge Trail at 1.3 mi."

Photo Album

Norumbega Mountain (Acadia National Park)

Norumbega Mountain (Acadia National Park)

Hike Type: Out-and-Back
Distance: 3.2 miles
Elevation: 679 feet
Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Acadia Ascents

The Hike

Still keeping with the theme of "coming to my senses" and trying to keep my body moving (read: not in a catatonic state), I altered my first plan of taking the Goat Trail up Norumbega and took the longer Norumbega Mountain Trail. The stats of the hike really remained unchanged, but instead of a silly steep climb there would be a gentle climb, which I was a much bigger fan of on the third day of hiking. The parking area is a pull-off on Hadlock Pond Road, a dirt road, right at Lower Hadlock Pond (there is a gate that clearly states where you cannot go past). 

The hike begins on a dirt-road walk along Lower Hadlock Pond, and then it turns onto another road and continues across the Lower Hadlock Pond dam, which offers great views of the water and nearby mountains. Soon after the dam, the Norumbega Mountain Trail turns left into the woods and starts its gradual climb. The forest starts open with threes scattered about - very scenic. There were one or two steeper sections, but the climb was overall very gentle. 

The trail opens up on the Norumbega Mountain ridge near its intersection with the Golf Course Trail. Very classic ridge walking - trees on either side, but lots of sun and lots of bare rockface. As the summer gets closer, the views increase in both directions and are quite lovely. One one side are Penobscot, Sargent, Parkman, Bald, and Gilmore, and on the other side is the Somes Sound, Acadia, St. Sauveur, Beech, Bernard, and Mansell. Up until this point I had only seen a few people as well, which was quite lovely. 

The summit sign was just off the trail on a large rock, and there was a grown family of four bickering about who knows what right at the summit sign. I understand the allure of eating your summit snack at the sign, but I also find it wildly inconsiderate. Anyone else who climbs the mountain probably wants a moment to poke the sign and take a few photos, and it's always awkward when I have to insert myself to get my a photo, especially when the family is bickering. A highlight of their conversation was mom saying "it's fine you're always right" and "I always do everything anyway so it's for the better that one of you step up."

There are partial views of the ocean on the return trip along the ridge, but I didn't have much time to enjoy them because the bickering family quickly started following me (i.e., continuing their hike), so I booked it down the mountain. I didn't slow down until I hit the Lower Hadlock Pond again, because there were hundreds of (what I assume to be) bullfrog tadpoles! They were HUGE, and some of them already sprouted their little baby frog legs. I was obsessed with them! They were all along the shore line, and they are my new favorite version of frog. The end.

Step-By-Step

• Park at Hadlock Pond Rd., park before gate. 
• Hike along road, turn at intersection.
• Follow signs for Hadlock Ponds Trail.
• Paying attention to signs, turn left onto Norumbega Mountain Trail.
• Hike to summit, turn around, return to car. 

Trail Descriptions from Maine Mountain Guide

Norumbega Mountain

        "Rising steeply from the sea-level waters of Somes Sound, shapely Norumbega Mtn. is the westernmost high mountain on the east side of Mt. Desert Island. The upper slopes may appear heavily forested, but the peak actually has a surprising number of excellent lookouts, at times east to Parkman Mtn., Bald Mtn., and Hadlock ponds, and at other times south and west, to Somes Sound and Northeast Harbor. Three trails ascend Norumbega Mtn., and several more went along its base."

Norumbega Mountain Trail

        "Norumbega Mtn. Trail climbs the peak from the south at Lower Hadlock Pond. To reach the start, from the jct. of ME 233 and ME 3/198, drive south for 3.8 mi. Just pas Brown Mtn. Gatehouse on the left, arrive at Hadlock Pond Rd. on the right. Turn left here. Park at several turnouts to either side of the road over the first 0.2 mi. from ME 3/198. No parking is allowed beyond the gate."

        "From the gate, walk along Hadlock Pond Rd., paralleling the pond (public water supply, no swimming). Bear right off the road at the fork, then soon pass a cul-de-sac. At 0.2 mi. from the gate, bear right to a jct. Here, Reservoir Trail leaves to the left, while Hadlock Ponds Trail goes straight ahead. Follow Hadlock Ponds Trail across the dam and spillway and past the pumphouse. There is a nice view here north to Parkman Mtn., Bald Peak, Gilmore Peak, Sargent Mtn., and Cedar Swamp Mtn. At 0.3 miles, reach a jct. on the shore of the pond. Here, Hadlock Ponds Trail leads straight ahead, while Norumbega Mtn. Trail begins to the left."

        "Norumbega Mtn. Trail climbs moderately through spruce woods, then more steeply on rocks and roots. At 0.8 mi., Golf Course Trail from the Northeast Harbor Golf Club enters from the left. At 1.9 mi., reach the high ridgeline of the mountain amid a fragrant forest of pines. Southwest Harbor and the nearby islands, Western Mtn., Somes Sound, Flying Mtn., and St. Sauveur Mtn. fill the view. Continue easily on the ridge for about a half-mile to a point just south of the summit where there are nearly 360-degree views. Meet Goat Trail at 1.6 mi. from the start."

Photo Album

The Triad & Day Mountain (Acadia National Park)

The Triad and Day Mountain (Acadia National Park)

Hike Type: Slingshot
Distance: 1.8 miles
Elevation: 764 feet
Time: 1 hour, 16 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Acadia Ascents

The Hike

The Traid and Day Mountains were originally going to be part of my grand finale hike around Jordan Pond, but since a theme of this trip has been "coming to my senses," I decided to hike these two seperately so I don't ruin my body the next day. Through the power of Google Maps street view, I saw that there is a pull off on Park Loop Road that leads up to the carriage road that both the Triad Trail and Day Mountain Trail start on, so off I went!

There is a dilapidated trail marker that says "To Carriage Road" right at the pull off, and it leads to a bridge that connects the carriage road around Day mountain and the one around the Triad. I decided to hike the Triad first, so I walked towards carriage road marker #17, and the trailhead was located right behind it. It had rained the night before, so much of this hike was wet and a little slippery. The first section of the hike was through rocky, mossy, open forest, which was covered in slippery leaves and roots, but was a very scenic stretch of woods. The trail then opens up to a steep slabby section that was very slippery - I was not thrilled at this moment. Thankfully, that section is short and there are partial views of the surrounding waters and mountains from the summit area. The return trip could be summed up with "wet roots are the slipperiest substance in recorded human history," but thankfully no injuries or lasting traumas were sustained.

Back at the carriage road, I crossed the bridge, waved to my beloved CRV, and started my hike up the Day Mountain Trail. This trail was relatively easy the entire time through mossy forest. It was actually quite lovely! Before I knew it I was at the summit area, which is a small circle of woods surrounded by a carriage road. I got my summit photo, had a quick snack, and enjoyed the partial views from the carriage road. My return trip had one moment of fear when I heard an alien-like sound from deep in the woods - it ended up being just a horse neigh-ing from the nearby carriage road. I was quickly back at the trailhead, back at the CRV, did a quick change, and planned my route for my last hike of the day - Norumbega Mountain.

Step-By-Step

• Park before Carriage Road bridge between The Triad and Day Mountain.
• Climb short trail to Carriage Road and turn right onto Triad Trail.
• Climb Triad Trail to Triad Summit, return to trailhead.
• Cross bridge, climb Day Mountain Trail to Summit, return to trailhead.
• Return to car.

Trail Descriptions from Maine Mountain Guide

Triad Trail

        "This trail provides a route from Pemetic Mtn. to Day Mtn. via the Triad. The start of Triad Trail is best reached from the Jordan Pond trailhead parking area via a 1.1-mi. hike on Jordan Pond Path and Bubbles & Jordan Ponds Path. From the jct. of Bubbles & Jordan Ponds Path and Pemetic East Cliff trail, Triad Trail rises moderately for 0.4 mi. to cross Hunters Brook Trail before reaching the top of the Triad. From there, the trail descends for 0.6 mi. to end at a carriage road jct. an dthe Triad-Day Mtn. Bridge over Park Loop Rd. The northern end of Day Mtn. Trail is here also."

The Triad

        "The Triad is a compact group of three peaks nestled between Pemetic Mtn. and Day Mtn., just east of Jordan Pond. Hunters Brook Trail and Triad Trail crisscross its slopes"

Day Mountain Trail

        "This trail starts on the north side of ME 3, 1.3 mi. south of the entrance to Blackwoods CG. A parking area is on the south side of the road. A few feet into the woods, a side trail leads right 150 ft. to the Champlain Monument, a tribute to Samuel de Champlain, the French navigator and explorer who visited Mt. Desert Island in 1604 and named it."

        "The trail climbs moderately through the forest for its entire length. Perodically crossing carriage roads (six different times), it offers good views of Hunters Beach and Seal Harbor from ledges at 0.7 mi. The trail reaches the summit at 0.9 mi. Beyond, it descends into the forest and ends at a carriage road and the Triad-Day Mtn. Bridge over ME 3 at 1.4 mi. Here, Triad Trail continues north toward the Triad and Pemetic Mtn. For a nice loop, go either left or right on the carriage road to return to ME 3."

Day Mountain

        "This little mountain at the southern edge of the eastern side of ANP offers sweeping views from many points on its upper slopes. Reach the top via Day Mtn. Trail and a pretty carriage road that winds its way to the summit."

Photo Album

Huguenot Head & Champlain Mountain (Acadia National Park)

Huguenot Head & Champlain Mountain (Acadia National Park)

Hike Type: Loop
Distance: 3.5 miles
Elevation: 1066 feet
Time: 2 hours, 2 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Acadia Ascents

The Hike

Good morning to day three! I arguably had the best sleep of my life (like due to pure exhaustion), checked out of motel room number one at 4:00am, and started my drive to The Tarn! I was the only car in the parking lot, minus one person who parked, read the kiosk, and left, got my everything together, and started my journey on the Beachcroft Path!

The Beachcroft Path was described frequently online as an incredibly engineered trail, and I completely agree with that. It quickly breaks out of the woods and hugs the cliffs of Huguenot Head, providing great views of ME-3, Dorr Mountain, and the lowlands on either side. The trail climbs steadily, but never too steeply (yet), and before I knew it I was skirting the summit of Huguenot Head. The true summit is off-trail, but there is a clear opening on the rockface that leads quickly to the summit. The summit area is wide, circular, and flat. Truly a beautiful area. I did have to sneak into the woods near the summit for a surprise number two (shockingly), but then I was able to enjoy my time up there.

The Beachcroft Path dips into the woods and then starts a steep climb up Champlain Mountain. This trail mostly followed rock slabs, and got pretty steep as the top grew near. It reminded me of the slab walking heading up North Percy in NH, but this area also had a bunch of wet areas that were sketchy - enough to make me decide to not take this same trail down. I'm sure I could have made it, but I didn't want to deal with the stress, and usually when a trail is called "________ Ridge Trail" in this park, it's bound to be scenic. 

The summit of Champlain Mountain was quiet and peaceful with not a soul in sight. I could have spent years looking at these views. Being able to be so close to the ocean from a peak like this is just awe-inspiring. Truly incredible. I took way too many photos as usual, gawked at the gorgeous pools around the summit area, and then started my journey down! I took the Champlain North Ridge Trail, which had views almost the entire time of Bar Harbor, the Porcupine Islands, and a nearby laboratory that emitted a dull hum the whole time (my only complaint). The trail was relatively gentle, and the memory of any steep sections have been overtaken in my brain with the beautiful views. 

The trail terminates right on Park Loop Road, which thankfully wasn't as busy early in the morning. Sometimes there was a footpath on the side of the road, sometimes it was overgrown, and sometimes it was a free-for-all, but it was still nice. I walked past Beaver Dam Pond, saw no beavers, but the pond acted as a mirror for Champlain and Huguenot Head. After the pond, one of those nasty mountain  chickens (aka, grouse) found me and wanted to end my life, but thankfully realized it couldn't take me. I remember thinking on Mansell/Bernard that it would be prime grouse location, as I always seem to find them, and then I wondered if they even had them out here. They do. The rest of the road walk was uneventful. I took a side path up the bridge of ME-3, and made it back to the parking lot where I was still the only car!

Step-By-Step

• Park at The Tarn parking area.
• Cross ME-3 and start hike on Beachcroft Path.
• Near topographical summit of Huguenot Head, follow vauge herd path to summit and return to main trail. 
• Continue on Beachcroft Path to summit Champlain Mountain.
• At summit, turn left to descend via Champlain North Ridge Trail.
• At terminus, turn left onto Park Loop Road.
• Before jct. with ME-3, there is a herd path that reconnects with Beachcroft Path, I did not take this.
• Go under ME-3 bridge, turn left to join road and return to parking lot.

Trail Descriptions from Maine Mountain Guide

Beachcroft Path

        "This path offers a convenient route from the Sieur de Monts Spring area to the summit of Champlain Mtn. via Huguenot Head. The trail officially starts at the jct. of Jesup Path, Kurt Diederich's Climb, and kane Path, 0.1 mi. west of ME 3 and the parking area at the north end of the Tarn. Most hikers, however, will simply start from ME 3. From the village green in Bar Harbor (jct. with Mt. Desert St. and Main St.), drive south on ME 3 for 1.6 mi. to the Tarn Parking lot on the right, immediately beyond the Sieur de Monts Spring entrance to ANP."

        "After crossing ME 3, Beachcroft Path starts up a flight of granite steps and then heads southeast, often on carefully placed stonework. Following switchbacks and stone steps, the trail rises across the west slope of Huguenot Head. It passes just below the summit of Huguenot Head at about 0.7 mi. A brief, gradual descent into the notch between Huguenot Head and Champlain Mtn. is followed by a sharp, difficult ascent over rocks up the northwest slope of the mountain to the summit at 1.4 mi."

Champlain Mountain

        "Champlain Mtn., the easternmost major ridge on Mt. Desert Island, consists of the main peak of Champlain Mtn. and the subsidiary peak of Huguenot Head, just west. The Beehive and Gorham Mtn. are immediately south of Champlain Mtn. All of these summits provide excellent views. Champlain and the Beehive are very popular because of their exciting ladder trails that climb steep cliff faces overlooking Frenchman Bay. Easier trails that are better suited for children or those with a fear of heights provide access to both peaks."

Champlain North Ridge Trail

        "Beginning on Park Loop Rd., 0.2 mi. east of the entrance to Bear Brook picnic area, this trail ends at the summit of Champlain Mtn., where Champlain South Ridge Trail continues on to meet Bowl Trail at the south end of the bowl, a pretty mountain tarn.

        The trail climbs gradually from Park Loop Rd. through a mixed forest of birch, pine, and spruce on the north slope of Champlain Mtn. to a jct. at 0.5 mi. To the left, a connector trail leads 0.1 mi. to Orange & Black Path. Continuing ahead on Champlain North Ridge Trail, the path climbs steadily to emerge from the forest canopy, giving outstanding views of Frenchman Bay and Schoodic Peninsula on the mainland to the east. Atop the summit ridge, Beachcroft Trail enters from the right (west), and just ahead at 1.1 mi., the trail reaches the open, rocky summit of Champlain Mtn. At the large summit cairn is the jct. with Precipice Trail and Champlain South Ridge Trail."

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