Posted on August 5, 2022 and last updated on August 08, 2022

Sunset Rock Town Park, Vinalhaven

QUICK TRAIL FACTS

  • Preserve Size: Not sure
  • Trail Mileage: ~0.6 miles to rock
  • Pets: yes
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Sights: Hurricane Sound, island village

Post by Michaela Goldfine

This walk begins on Granite Island Road and winds its way through a quintessential island village. Walking along the dirt portion of City Point Road is also beautiful. Just past a large A-Frame on your right the road narrows to a path and the smooth expanse of Sunset Rock rises up to the right. The views are stunning from the top. The ~0.1-mile path up the rock, which is a long, sloping ledge, is easy, short, and smooth, with a steady incline.

At the base of Sunset Rock the path continues right, along the coast. We followed it until we reached a broad expanse of rock, just past an old abandoned outhouse and the tightly boarded up “Captain Wadleigh’s Houseboat.” The sign beside the door dates it to 1932. It was unclear to us whether the trail continues beyond the rocks since it is unmarked. This destination was definitely worth the walk! We plan to return for a sunset viewing.

Directions from Vinalhaven Land Trust: “This town park is accessible to walkers and bicyclists only via a private right-of-way on which vehicles (other than those belonging to abutters) are not permitted. Take a left onto Sands Road for 0.4 miles, turn left on Old Harbor Road, drive 1.3 miles to City Point Road on your left. If you are driving, continue past City Point Road another few hundred yards to a small pull-off area, at the bottom of the hill. Walk back and turn in at City Point Road. At the intersection with Bayview Cemetery Road, continue left on a dirt road marked ‘Private Road. No Public Parking’ about 0.4 miles, past the A-frame on your right. Climb up to the top to enjoy the view of Hurricane Sound and the sun setting over the White Islands.”

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