Posted on December 10, 2019 and last updated on December 13, 2019

Isle Au Haut Mountain Town Park, Vinalhaven

QUICK TRAIL FACTS

  • Preserve Size: 17 acres
  • Trail Mileage: .5 mile one way
  • Pets: yes
  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Sights: pitch pine, granite ledge, distant views

Hm, after visiting this town park, I’m left a bit confused by the experience. First off, we found it difficult to find since there are no signs for the park until you are basically on the summit. At this point, there is one arrow directing you to bear right to the open ledge and views (possibly put up by the neighbors?). The neighbors really don’t want park goers or four-wheelers on their land, and have put up a few stay-away signs. Finally, the walk to the island is along a rough road that seems very popular with off-road vehicles and isn’t that nice to walk.

That being said, the 17-acre park on the hilltop is kind of cool, consisting of open granite ledges, pitch pine, and distant sea views.

Directions: The town recommends you park at Lawson’s Quarry on North Haven Road, just north of Isle Au Haut Mountain Road. Once you’re on Isle Au Haut Mountain Road, walk half a mile up it to reach the park. When you pass what Google says is Sandy’s Way (I believe it was called Round the Bend Road in real life?), you’ll see a wide road leading off to the right. Walk on by. Continue straight up Isle Au Haut Road as it narrows to a rough track and leads into the woods. Keep going straight until you emerge onto more open ledge. You should see a rough wooden sign with an arrow pointing right to the town park. When you get to an open area with a picnic table, you’ve arrived, and can explore this interesting spot.

Let me know if you have any trail updates or corrections!