Walks in the Woods
Long Point Preserve, Machiasport
Those looking for a peaceful hike through the woods—often with at least a glimpse of saltwater, if not miles of coastal trail—will find what they’re looking for on many MCHT preserves.
From short jaunts to day-long treks, MCHT offers numerous hiking options for those looking to stretch their legs along the coast.
The picks below offer a wide variety of experiences on different parts of the coast. Enjoy!
Ed Woodsum Preserve on Marshall Island – Unorganized Territories, Maine
It’s not easy to get to (you’ll need a boat) but this vast, remote island is as close to wild as America’s eastern seaboard gets. Camp overnight at once of several campsites and tire yourself out on the ten-mile network of rugged coastal paths. This is an experience you won’t forget.
Hamilton Cove Preserve – Lubec, Maine
A short walk down a coastal path leads to a jaw-dropping cove with views to Grand Manan. Don’t want to stop there? You don’t have to. This bold coast preserve offers three miles of paths leading to scenic meadows, rugged beaches, dramatic bluffs, and breathtaking vistas.
Harriman Point Preserve – Brooklin, Maine
This sizable preserve (Blue Hill Peninsula’s largest continuous stretch of coastline open to the public) is the place to go for those looking for a peaceful walk through the woods that concludes in a remote beach with views out to Mount Desert Island.
Long Point Preserve – Machiasport, Maine
This preserve comprises most of a peninsula jutting out into beautiful Machias Bay. Lace up your hiking books for an excursion that leads down a rustic path to a loop around the rugged peninsula, totaling over three miles.
Woodward Point Preserve – Brunswick, Maine
Fields, forest, saltwater—this southern Maine preserve it all. Enjoy a bucolic jaunt through the meadow teeming with life, or head down to the water and pass some peaceful time scanning the shoreline for birds and clammers at work in the flats.