Rutherford Island Preserve

This is a short trail — ~0.4 miles one way — but it offers a lot of beauty. The forest trail, which culminates in a lofty view of Damariscotta River, is winding and lovely, passing some old stone walls and taking you through dark patches of spruce before emerging on a lane, which you cross, to the final 100 yards to a bench with a view.

The trail starts out on bog bridges and a few well-placed rocks to avoid the wet forest floor. When you reach the end, you’ll have to pick your way down a short, steep section of ledge to reach the bench. Alternatively, you can skip this little climb by taking the alternative trail — it’ll be on your left, close to the end of the trail. The rocks below the cliff at the trail’s end can also be slippery, so take care if you try to clamber down to get photos.

The trail is well marked, which is helpful, since there are other unmarked paths weaving in and out at points.

Directions: Follow Route 129 to the South Bristol Bridge. Once you cross over, go right onto West Side Road, following it until you come to a little lane called Atlantic Avenue. Take a right and the small preserve parking area for two vehicles will be almost immediately on your right.