Frenchboro Bird Walk, Frenchboro
May 21, 2010 :: Comments 1
Time
8 am to 6 pm
Field Trip 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 walk along miles of trails cutting through maritime forests, along shoreline trails, and through the town in search of birds. During the peak of spring migration, Frenchboro is a great place to spot and hear many types of songbirds In addition, the island's 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 exploration of MCHT's preserve and the village around Lunt Harbor, with its history museum and dockside restaurant.
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) and you should plan to be there around 7:30 am.
The passenger-only ferry operates on Friday's only (round trip ticket is $11.25) with an 8 am departure from Bass Harbor and a 6 pm return trip from Frenchboro (No other 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 1-207-798-5590, ext 201.
What an amazing day this was! I could not have asked for better weather, bird watching, or trip leaders. Our small group of four hiked several of the well designed and marked trails that treated us to spectacular views of the rugged coast and other nearby islands. Trip leader Terry Towne built the trails we explored on the MCHT preserve and has extensive personal knowledge of the local natural and cultural history. Co-leader Jeff Romano opened my eyes and ears to the avian chorus surrounding us. Thanks to his keen observations, by the end of the afternoon we had heard and/or saw about 50 species of birds. Some of the highlights were stunning views of a scarlet tanager and northern oriole, and a black backed woodpecker (a "lifer" for me!).
We ended our day with delicious lobster and crab rolls hand picked for us by Tammy at the Off shore Store in town - a welcome reward after coming off the trail (the miles we covered was also a good excuse to indulge in one of her yummy brownies). This was my first visit to Frenchboro and it won't be my last. The quiet, charming village in a postcard setting is a place worth returning to at every opportunity. I thank MCHT for introducing me to this gem and for their great work in keeping it protected.
Cynthia Ocel | May 23, 2010 1:10 PM