DC runner 2 wrote:
Below Average wrote:
I lived there for a summer. Best place I’ve ever ran. The Eagle lake parking lot was always a great starting point. I believe it’s about a 10k loop if you just run around the lake. My main loop was called “ 7 bridges”. It was just under 13 miles. Start at Eagle lake, up to aunt Betty pond, Up the seven bridges hill, loop around Jordan pond, bubble pond, and finish where you started. It does seem overwhelming at first, but every trail is great. You can’t go wrong.
Thank you! Might try that loop later this week.
This is a great loop, but be prepared for a serious climb up the 7 bridges section. A slightly shorter and easier version of the loop is the Tri-Lakes loop that someone else mentioned. It cuts out the 7 bridges part but also connects Eagle, Bubble, and Jordan for around an 11 mile loop. Try it in both directions, as it runs differently each way.
The Witch Hole area is another great area closer to Bar Harbor. You can figure-8 your way to 7 or 8 miles in there without a lot of repeat sections of carriage road.
The Day Mountain loop is where you'll most likely encounter horses, if that matters. The view from the top of Day Mountain is great though.
It is easy to get lost on the carriage roads south and west of Jordan Pond, so carry a map with you if you get in there. It's great running though, if you don't mind hills, and the views around Little Long Pond are gorgeous.
The Around-The-Mountain loop climbs the highest, but has great views of course.
One thing to keep in mind is that water and facilities are limited in the park. There is a water fountain outside the bathrooms at the Jordan Pond House, which - at least in non-pandemic times - is working all-hours, even though the bathrooms aren't opened until 7 or 8 am. There's also water and bathrooms at Wildwood Stables.
Also, be prepared for mosquitos and other bitey things - especially near Betty's Pond, which seems to have them the worst.
Enjoy!