Frenchboro Preserve
967 acres
Property Description
Located on Frenchboro Long Island, this 967-acre preserve includes 5.6 miles of shoreline, hundreds of acres of spruce forests, and dozens of forested and open wetlands, headlands, and beaches. While the interior provides intact habitat for forest and wetland wildlife, the preserve's rocky shoreline is home to rare plants such as mare's tail and beachhead iris. Beaver and deer were introduced in the 1900s and have definitely left their mark with ponds and little hardwood understory. Frenchboro Long Island is also home to nesting bald eagles and is a popular stopping point for migratory birds.
The preserve offers a network of more than 10 miles of hiking trails that provide access to an array of spectacular shoreline vistas. Please use care in planning your route as the trails are rustic and largely unmarked. Many of the paths on the island extend from MCHT land onto private property. Neighboring landowners have generously continued the island tradition of allowing the public to cross their properties. Please respect their privacy by staying far away from any structures and leaving no trace of your visit.
Frenchboro Long Island is home to approximately 65 year-round residents who make their living primarily from the sea through lobster fishing. The village is clustered around Lunt Harbor, and includes a schoolhouse, post office, church, museum/library, firehouse and seasonal dockside deli, in addition to the residences and working wharves. Rich's Head, which borders the preserve to the east, is privately owned but protected through a conservation easement held by Acadia National Park. MCHT acquired the Frenchboro Preserve in 2000.
---------- Preserve Boundary
Download a printable preserve map (PDF)
Preserve information & guidelines
- No Camping Permitted
- No Fires Permitted
- Stay on Established Trails
- Carry Out All Trash
- Including Human and Pet Waste and Toilet Paper
- Keep Pets Under Control
- Please Respect the Privacy of Preserve Neighbors
How to Get There: Frenchboro Long Island can be accessed by private boat or via a passenger only state-run ferry service that connects the island with Bass Harbor on Fridays from early Spring to late Fall. Moorings are available for rent in the harbor.
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