Island Coves, Lubec

Cobscook Shores is setting up an appointment system to book a visit to the Island Coves park, which is accessible via a private road. To reach the preserve, you’ll drive down a dirt road — it can be rough in places but is still passable for low-clearance cars. At the fork, turn right to reach the small parking area and trailhead kiosk.

Like the other Cobscook Shore properties, Island Coves has a sturdy, screened pavilion. This one is situated on the top of a grassy knoll, with views of the surrounding bay. You can reach it via a very short trail that leaves from the parking area and trailhead kiosk.

Additionally, you can walk some paths to the shore — where you can take in the sweeping quiet of this part of Cobscook Bay. The path on the western side of the preserve brings you to a narrow peninsula tipped with rocky ledge — a good place for sitting and swimming, if you’re inclined (and brave—it’s very cold).

The gravel roads that make up part of this trail system are wheelchair accessible — one brings you to a boat launch. Looks like you might be able to make your way over to the little island at low tide from this point.

Directions: The preserve is at the end of Lyons Road. Stay right when the road diverges, and continue past the private road sign. At the next fork, turn right again to reach the small parking area and trailhead kiosk.