Head Harbor, Isle au Haut
This 72-acre preserve abuts Acadia National Park’s Isle au Haut section and features secluded hiking trails and breathtaking scenery.
Head Harbor is great for:
Hiking – Explore the preserve’s two trails where opportunities to observe wildlife abound.
Photography – Pack your camera to capture stunning views of Isle Au Haut’s spectacular southern coastline.
How to get there
Passenger service from Stonington to Isle au Haut is available via the Mailboat, which is operated by an Isle au Haut based non-profit organization. The Mailboat operates daily from mid-June until late October, and runs Monday through Saturday during the winter.
Once on Isle au Haut, follow Main Road south for six miles to the preserve. While there is no car transportation other than through private hire, Mailboat passengers can bring a bicycle to the island for an additional fee.
For a complete map with legend and guidelines, click on the Printable Preserve Map above.
Two trails to explore
There are two hiking trails visitors can enjoy. The Goat Trail begins near the Head Harbor wharf, continues south and swings west remaining close to the scenic shoreline. The Goat Path ends at the Acadia National Park boundary.
A second trail begins west of Head Harbor Wharf. This short path follows an old road that leads south to the top of a small hill, where there are lovely views of the surrounding area.
Notes on topography, flora, and fauna
Located on the southern end of Isle au Haut, the 72-acre Head Harbor Preserve is bordered by Acadia National Park to the west and Head Harbor to the east. The mostly wooded preserve features pitch pine at high elevations and along the shore, with maritime spruce-fir forest in between. From a highpoint of 140 feet, the Head Harbor Preserve descends rapidly to a stunning, rocky shoreline and breathtaking ocean views.
How this place became open to the public
MCHT acquired the preserve in 2008.
This place belongs to all of us. Help us take care of it!
Preserve information/guidelines
- No Camping Permitted
- No Fires Permitted
- Stay on Established Trails
- Foot Traffic Only – Trails Are Not Suitable for Wheeled Vehicles
- Carry Out All Trash
- Including Human and Pet Waste and Toilet Paper
- Keep Pets Under Control
- Please Respect the Privacy of Preserve Neighbors
- Do Not Remove Archaeological Artifacts
- Deer Hunting Not Permitted by Town
