Marshall Island
985 acres
Property Description
The Ed Woodsum Preserve includes all of 985-acre Marshall Island, the largest undeveloped island on America's eastern seaboard. The preserve was acquired by MCHT in 2003, thanks to the generosity of private donors and the state's Land for Maine's Future Program. In the years that have followed, the Trust has developed 10 miles of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore much of the island. However, most visitors to Marshall are drawn to an alluring beach located within Sand Cove on the island's southeastern shore. This sandy expanse is a popular summer destination for recreational boaters and residents of nearby communities.
Marshall is forested predominately with spruce species and an occasional hardwood. Throughout the island there is a network of interconnected wetlands. Nearly the entire shoreline consists of bold granite ledge and cobble beaches. Numerous species of birds are drawn to the island each year. In addition to migratory visitors, there has been an active bald eagle nest near Boxam Cove and the island is home to many resident songbirds.
Caution should be taken while hiking the island's rugged shoreline. While MCHT employs summer caretakers on the island from July through Labor Day, no services are available and cell phone coverage is spotty. There are few places along Maine's coast as isolated, wild, and beautiful as Marshall Island.
---------- Preserve Boundary
Download a printable preserve map (PDF)
Preserve information & guidelines
- Camping at Established Campsites by Reservation Only
Please call 207-729-7366
Limit stay to 2 nights - Fires by Permit Only - Maine State Law
Contact Maine Forest Service at 207-827-1800 for Permit
Keep All fires Below High Tide Line
Do Not Cut or Break Tree limbs, Dead or Alive
Leave No Fire Unattended
Completely Extinguish All Fires - 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: Marshall Island is located in Hancock County south of Swans Island. The preserve offers a dock for easy landing on the northeast side near Ringtown Island.
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