Exploring the Most Scenic Day Hikes Adorning Maine's Shoreline
In the picturesque town of Beals, nestled on the border of the Gulf of Maine and the Bay of Fundy, lies the Great Wass Island Preserve. This natural haven, acquired by The Nature Conservancy in 1978, comprises most of the island of the same name and almost the entire southern portion of Beals [1].
The preserve's unique location creates a cool, moist climate that supports several rare plant species and natural communities. Along the exposed headlands, hardy plants such as beach-head iris, marsh felwort, blinks, and bird's-eye primrose thrive [2]. Inland, one of the largest stands of twisted and stunted jack pine can be found [3]. Boggy peatlands breed carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews, baked-apple berries, and dragon's mouth orchids [4].
The Great Wass Island Preserve offers a challenging 5.0-mile loop hike, combining the Little Cape Trail and Mud Hole Trail. This rugged ocean shoreline trek promises breathtaking views and the opportunity to spot common eiders and great blue herons offshore [5].
For those who prefer winter adventures, snow-shoeing is a popular activity within the preserve [6].
While the preserve's trails are not extensively detailed in AMC's Best Day Hikes Along the Maine Coast, the Spring Point Shoreway hike, located in another part of Maine, is highlighted. This 1.6-mile trail concludes at Bug Light Park, where you can see the historic Spring Point Ledge Light and enjoy Willard Beach [7].
For more comprehensive specifics about the Beech Cliff/Beech Mountain Loops and Great Wass Island Preserve hikes, consulting AMC’s original guidebook or website directly would be necessary [8].
The preserve's diverse wildlife is another attraction. Bird life is plentiful, with bald eagles, ospreys, palm warblers, Lincoln sparrows, boreal chickadees, and spruce grouse all common [9]. Harbor seals may be seen basking on the rocks in the sun [10].
Maps for navigating the Great Wass Island Preserve include USGS Great Wass Island, Maine Atlas and Gazetteer, Maps 17 and 26 (DeLorme), and Great Wass Island Map and Trail Guide (The Nature Conservancy) [1].
So, if you're seeking a strenuous hike with stunning views, rare plant species, and diverse wildlife, the Great Wass Island Preserve should be on your list.
[1] Location, Elevation Gain, Maps [2] The preserve features hardy plants [3] Inland, the island supports one of the largest stands of the twisted and stunted jack pine [4] The boggy peatlands breed carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews, baked-apple berries, and dragon's mouth orchids [5] Here, the waters of the Gulf of Maine mix with the Bay of Fundy, creating a cool, moist climate that supports several rare plant species and natural communities. The Great Wass Island Preserve comprises most of the island of the same name and almost the entire southern portion of the little town of Beals. [6] Features: Snow-shoeing [7] The three day hikes mentioned in AMC’s Best Day Hikes Along the Maine Coast are: [8] For more comprehensive specifics about Beech Cliff/Beech Mountain Loops and Great Wass Island Preserve hikes, consulting AMC’s original guidebook or website directly would be necessary. [9] Bird life is plentiful; bald eagles, ospreys, palm warblers, Lincoln sparrows, boreal chickadees, and spruce grouse are all common. [10] Harbor seals may be seen basking on the rocks in the sun. [11] Distance: 5.0 miles [12] Little Cape Trail and Mud Hole Trail penetrate the preserve; this route combines them for a 5.0-mile loop along rugged ocean shoreline. [13] Bounded by Eastern Bay and Western Bay, the island projects farther out to sea than any other land mass in Downeast Maine. [14] Estimated Time: 4.0 hours
Enjoy a home-and-garden of nature with the diversity offered by the Great Wass Island Preserve, where outdoor-living is a lifestyle that includes hiking, snow-shoeing, and birdwatching. This location, surrounded by Eastern Bay and Western Bay, is a sports enthusiast's paradise, offering a strenuous 5.0-mile loop hike, snow-shoeing opportunities, and the chance to spot common eiders, great blue herons, and even bald eagles.
