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Harriman Point, Brooklin

Harriman Point, Brooklin

About

This month I invite you to explore Harriman Point in Brooklin. A forty-five minute drive from Castine, it is a beautiful Maine Coast Heritage Trust property that features not only a long stretch of coastline but wooded paths and salt marsh ready for hikers of all ages including our four-legged friends on leash.  The preserve is a peninsula that boasts 138 acres. You can hike the 2.8 mile loop, leaving room for future visits in the winter to cross country ski and snowshoe. It is a great site for bird watching during fall and spring migration.

I spent about two hours hiking from the woods to the coast stopping along the way to investigate the tide pools. Take a look at the tide chart and try to time your visit  so you can explore some of the pools. The walk itself is relatively easy that you could do in an hour on well maintained trails which include planked and field footpaths, wide trails, shore paths with a few rocks and steps.. Consider going early and taking a picnic lunch for the beach area.

Books and Tools

Two books to consider reading before or after your visit are books by E.B. White. E.B. White, the acclaimed writer and children’s book author wrote some of the most beloved classics such as Charlotte’s Web (1952) and Trumpet of the Swan (1970). Harriman Point provides a view west across Allen Cove, towards the author’s former residence. Check out the map of the preserve to see the vista. Consider borrowing one of the library’s adventure packs: seashore, hiking and/or birding depending on your hike’s focus.

Tips

  • Protect yourself from mosquitoes seasonally.
  • Look at the tides so you don’t miss the tide pools. See above.
  • Bring your children and dogs on a leash. Great for all ages!
  • Print the preserve’s map by going to the Maine Coast Site as there is not a lot of signage along the way. A map always helps and is a great tool for children to learn how to use.  
  • Take binoculars if you have them. You will see some amazing birds.
  • Small parking lot; just be aware. Go early.