Harriman Point, Brooklin

This is a remarkable 138-acre preserve, protected by Maine Coast Heritage Trust, where you can explore secluded gravel and shell beaches. The well-marked and well-made trail starts out on a trail across from the parking area. It emerges in 0.3 miles at an intersection of driveways, with a sign indicating walkers head down a long, straight road through forest, for about 1 mile. At this point, the path branches into two trails, each of which goes to an extraordinary spot. Where they split is the site of the old Harriman homestead, established in 1795. The trails connect to form a ~1-mile loop around the peninsula, which requires a bit of walking along the shore and the forest edge. Enjoy the views across Blue Hill Bay to Mount Desert Island — at any time of day or any time of year.

The total mileage for the walk, if you do the loop, is roughly 3.2 miles, not including additional spurs.

Directions: From the junction of Routes 172 and 175, south of Blue Hill, follow Route 175 toward Brooklin. Continue 7.5 miles and then turn left onto Harriman Point Road. Drive .5 mile to the parking lot on the right. The trail begins across the street from the parking lot.