Posted on August 5, 2019 and last updated on September 16, 2019

Salt Pond Preserve, Hancock

QUICK TRAIL FACTS

  • Preserve Size: 17.9 acres
  • Trail Mileage: .5 miles one way on trail, .6 miles one way on road
  • Pets: yes
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Sights: tidal pool, Mt. Desert Narrows, Carters Beach

A half-mile trail through the woods takes you to a lovely beach on Frenchman Bay that is backed by a tidal salt pond. Some people approach the beach and trail via the unpaved Carters Beach Road. The road, which is wheelchair accessible, is about .6 miles long and offers views of the sea over a hedge of beach roses and other salt air-loving plants. You can park at the side of Carters Beach Road before it turns into gravel.

Directions: From Route 1 in Hancock, turn onto Point Road. Travel down Point Road for 3.8 miles to a small turn-off. Alternatively, to start by the beach, continue an additional .4 miles on the Point Road until you reach Wharf Road on the left. Drive down Wharf Road, turn left on Bay Avenue and park near the Hancock Point boat house and walk north along Carter’s Beach Road.

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