Jordan Pond Westside Trail

This is an easy 3.5-mile loop that follows the path around the shores of the 150-foot-deep Jordan Pond. You do not to need to feel like you have to start with the full loop, but can consider exploring the open area between the south side of the pond and Jordan Pond House that has paved trails. This area leads to different carriage roads, the nature trail and the west and east side of the full Jordan Pond Loop trail. This trail is not too close to the pond, so it’s easy to let little kids run free. There are boardwalks and bridges along this trail, but nothing that should concern a parent.

This is also a hike that would be easy for parents who are new to having a baby in a carrier or are managing two young kiddos because it’s not a strenuous hike. For those who have double strollers, there is ample room to navigate this trail, and while there is some uphill, it’s totally doable.

When you arrive at the pond split, if you take the right and travel along the east side, there’s a compact surface. The left will take you over a boardwalk on a bog that is trickier to navigate. Cell service isn’t great, so keep in mind as you head out. Nursing moms may not find many benches along the way, but there are plenty of rocks in the area to sit on. And at the south area of the pond, there are a few Adirondack chairs.

Overall, there are a good amount of various easy hiking options in this area that aren’t too strenuous on parents, and toddlers could start out on the hike. But if you go the distance, expect to carry little ones in areas that are close to the pond shoreline. Also note the boardwalk areas were created to keep people off of any ecosystem preservation that is occurring, so be aware of that if you have eager little hikers who like to explore off trail.