Flat and Ned Islands
Winter Harbor
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Guidelines
What You Need to Know
- Campfires permitted (guidelines below)
- No camping permitted
- Carry out all trash (see details)
- Keep pets under control
Why we Care
Paddle, Picnic, and Explore
Paddle the open ocean to either of these two scenic islands in Frenchman Bay, which we’re proud to protect with your help. As you explore, you’ll find many spots to enjoy a relaxing picnic, all while taking in expansive views of MDI and the Schoodic Peninsula. Looking for wildlife? Between the open terrain of Flat Island and the varied landscapes on Ned Island, you’ll spot a diverse mix of wildlife in every direction.
Features
How to Get There
Hand-carry boat access is available from Frazier Point, located in the Schoodic Section of Acadia National Park (fee area). The nearest public launch for trailered boats is in the village of Winter Harbor (ramp is high-tide only). Small boats may beach on the eastern shore of Flat Island—beware of strong surge and numerous submerged rocks. Landing on Ned Island is limited to the small cobble beach on the northwest shore.
Explore the Map
Click on trails and landmarks to learn more about what Flat and Ned Islands have to offer.
Preserve Details
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Getting to Know Flat and Ned Islands
On the Islands
Generously donated to MCHT in 2009, these two island preserves lie just south and west of Grindstone Neck in the town of Winter Harbor.
Aptly named, 1.5-acre Flat Island is devoid of trees. Instead, its polished cobblestones are covered in rugosa rose, beach pea, hairy gooseberry, and poison ivy (watch your step!).
11.5-acre Ned Island sits southeast of its smaller neighbor and features a more varied landscape with extensive tree cover. The preserve includes a cobble beach to the north, rocky intertidal areas, surge channels, and cliffs descending steeply from a central hill.
An Island Family’s Legacy
While the history of Flat Island is sparse, records of human activity on Ned Island go back to the late 1800s, when it was owned by James Wright, keeper of the lighthouse on nearby Mark Island. Wright’s daughter Julia and her husband Charles lived on Ned Island until 1882, when Charles died trying to land there during a storm. The remains of what is believed to have been their house and well are located on the northern end of the island.
Stories from Mount Desert Island
How We’re Restoring Marshes
Many tidal marshes in Maine aren’t working the way they’re supposed to, but through restoration we can improve chances of successful marsh migration as sea levels rise in the decades to come.
Be part of the movement
Contribute to a future with
healthy, open lands & waters
Donate Now
Give your time to help
care for the coast
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Be a champion
for conservation
Spread the Word
More Information on the Islands
Campfires on the Islands
While campfires are permitted, it’s important to check for any local restrictions.
Guidelines:
- Must be smaller than 3 feet
- Keep all fires below high tide line
- Do not build fire rings
- Do not cut or break tree limbs, dead or alive
- Leave no fire unattended
- Completely extinguish all fires
Help Us Take Care of the Preserve
This preserve belongs to all of us; that’s why it’s important to leave as little trace as possible when you visit.
To do that, please:
- Carry out all trash
- Carry out all pet waste
- Carry out all human waste (including toilet paper)