Pemetic South Ridge Trail
A rugged granite-ridge ascent to panoramic views over Jordan Pond, Eagle Lake and Cadillac Mountain.
Route overview
Pemetic South Ridge Trail in Mount Desert Island and Down East Maine.
Pemetic South Ridge approaches the mountain from Jordan Pond and climbs increasingly steep granite to an open summit. The route is less technical than the northwest ravine alignment but remains strenuous, exposed and slippery when damp.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Mount Desert Island and Down East Maine
- Distance
- 6.4 km return
- Typical duration
- 2–4 hours
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Late spring through autumn; avoid wet, icy or stormy conditions
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- Park entrance pass; no hiking permit
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Steep wet granite, exposure, fog, thunderstorms, routefinding and crowded parking
Highlights
Acadia National Park, Pemetic Mountain, South Ridge, summit hike, exposed granite
Why find a buddy
A partner adds route confirmation and safer decision-making on steep exposed granite.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.