Basin Walk, Vinalhaven

1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Field Trip Description

The Basin Preserve is the result of a 20-year conservation effort on Vinalhaven Island. We'll enjoy a pleasant 1.5-mile loop walk while taking in views of the stunning 80-acre tidal basin and making a stop at our new observation platform to scan ledges for seals and the shoreline trees for local Bald Eagles and Osprey. From Pitch Pine to shoreline the walk will take us through a variety of habitats where we'll soak in the finest of what nature has to offer.

Directions & Where to Meet

The tour will begin at the Vinalhaven Land Trust parking lot located in Vinalhaven's Skoog Park. From Skoog Park we will carpool to the preserve's trailhead (see Map 9, A-1 in the Maine Atlas and Gazetteer).

If you plan on attending please email Kirk Gentalen at kgentalen@mcht.org by Wednesday, September 2.

For those arriving from the mainland, follow Route 1 into Rockland and follow the blue "Ferry Terminal" signs to the state ferry terminal. Parking at the Rockland Ferry Terminal is ten dollars for the day and a roundtrip passenger-only adult ticket costs $16.

There are three morning trips available for the one hour and fifteen minute crossing to Vinalhaven. The one departing 11:15 arrives closest to the tour's start. Upon departing the ferry, turn left and walk a few hundred yards to reach Skoog Park on the left. The tour will end in time for participants to return on the 4:30 pm ferry to Rockland.

For more information: Vinalhaven Ferry.

What to Bring & What to Expect

Participants should bring good walking shoes (not sandals), extra layers of clothing (examples: wind breaker, rain jacket, fleece), water, food, sun screen, insect repellent, and a hat. In addition, you are encouraged to bring a camera, binoculars, and field guides. Participants should expect easy to moderately difficult trails that will include inclines, uneven footing, and rough terrain.

More Information

If you have additional questions, please call Peg Adams, Stewardship Assistant, Monday through Friday at 207-729-7366, ext. 117. For last minute cancellation information call 1-207-798-5590, ext 201.

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