Jordan Pond is a gem that shines more brightly than even some of the larger, flashier jewels of Maine’s Acadia National Park. Situated within the park and near a network of walking trails and historic carriage roads, the pond is relatively small at just 187 acres. Although you can’t tell by looking at it, it’s one of the deepest lakes in the state, with glaciers having gouged it to 150 feet deep in places. The most popular spot to view the pond is from the Jordan Pond House, a restaurant at its south end. From here, the pond is framed by the Bubbles, a pair of gently rounded hills to the north (and which offer good views of the pond if you have the wherewithal to hike up). Jordan Pond offers a good mix of both cultural and natural history, from the former Victorian tea house to the silent woodland trails that follow the shore.

Summer is glorious in Maine, with frequent days warming into the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit, and nights cool in the 60s. Mount Desert Island is surrounded by chilly seawater, keeping temperatures reasonable even during the occasional heat wave (and also contributing to frequent foggy days). Crowds are at their peak in July and August; travel during the shoulder seasons if you’d rather have fewer people to share the trails. Be prepared for rainy days, spells of which can hit the region at any time. Woodland trails, but little else, are open through the winter, and offer hiking and cross-country skiing for the intrepid traveler.

Popovers at Jordan Pond House

The Jordan Pond House is far and away the biggest draw. Situated at the south end of the pond with a lovely view up the hill-surrounded waters, it’s been a popular destination for generations, with roots dating back to 1847. It’s now a modern affair with little trace of its Victorian tea house past, but it makes for a worthy destination after a day’s hike. Book an afternoon table on the lawn, and order baskets of huge, warm popovers, served with butter and strawberry jam.

Jordan Pond Loop hike

Visitors tend to cluster at the south end of the pond, in and around the Jordan Pond House. Slip away with a forested stroll around the pond, hiking northward on a footpath along the eastern shore, which skirts the base of the Bubbles, and then return via carriage road along the west shore. The full loop is 3.3 miles; allow an hour or two, depending on your pace and threshold for distraction.

Explore Carriage Roads

Mount Desert Island is laced with a 58-mile network of lovely carriage roads built in 1919. The gravel roads feature more than a dozen graceful stone bridges, and the lanes are often flanked by stone walls as they wind atop mountains, along ponds, and through valleys. Choose one to stretch your legs out on — or better yet, bring your mountain bike and explore the whole network.