Frenchboro Nature Hike, Frenchboro

Time

8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.

Tour Description

Join MCHT for a day of exploration on the 970-acre Frenchboro Preserve. After an enjoyable 45-minute early morning ferry ride, we'll take a 6-8 mile hike along trails that cut through maritime forests and along shoreline trails. Bold coastal cliffs and rocky headlands offer great views of Mount Desert Island, its off-shore islands and the open ocean. There will be plenty of time for personal exploration of the protected property and the village around Lunt Harbor, with its history museum, Dockside Restaurant, and Offshore Store.

Directions & Where to Meet

Take Route 3 out of Ellsworth towards Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park. After crossing the Mount Desert Island Narrows stay right and pick up Route 102 towards Southwest Harbor. Continue on Route 102 through Southwest Harbor and then turn right onto 102A towards Bass Harbor. Follow the signs for the "Swan's Island Ferry Terminal."

You may park at the Maine State Ferry for $7 (rate subject to change) but you'll have to be there by 7:30 am as the lot fills up quickly.

The state-run, passenger-only ferry operates on Friday's only (round-trip ticket is $11.25). It leaves promptly at 8 a.m. from Bass Harbor (you should arrive by 7:45) and the day's only return trip leaves from Frenchboro at 6:00 p.m. (No others ferry trips are run that day).

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 1-877-798-5590, ext 201.

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