The Ed Woodsum Preserve includes all of 985-acre Marshall Island, the largest undeveloped island on America's eastern seaboard. The preserve was acquired by the Maine Coast Heritage Trust (MCHT) in 2003, thanks to the generosity of private donors and the State's Land for Maine's Future Program. In the years that have followed, the Trust has developed 9.2 miles of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore much of the island. However, most visitors to Marshall are drawn to an alluring beach located within Sand Cove on the island's southeastern shore. This sandy expanse is a popular summer destination for recreational boaters and residents of nearby communities.
Marshall is forested predominately with spruce species and an occasional hardwood. Throughout the island there is a network of interconnected wetlands. Nearly the entire shoreline consists of bold granite ledge and cobble beaches. Numerous species of birds are drawn to the island each year. In addition to migratory visitors, the island is home to eagles and many resident songbirds.
Caution should be taken while hiking the island's rugged shoreline. While MCHT employs summer caretakers on the island from July through Labor Day, no services are available and cell phone coverage is spotty. There are few places along Maine's coast as isolated, wild, and beautiful as Marshall Island.
Camping is allowed at established first come first served campsites; call (207) 729-7366 or email MCHT stewardship with any questions. Fires are permissible by permit only (contact Maine Forest Service at 207-827-1800 for permit). Please keep all fires below high tide line, do not cut or break tree limbs (dead or alive), do not leave fire unattended, and completely extinguish all fires. Please stay on established trails, carry out all waste (including human and pet waste and toilet paper), and keep pets under control.
This trail passes through a property that was acquired in part with funds from the Land for Maine’s Future program. For more information about the LMF program and the places it has helped to protect, please visit the LMF webpage.
Visit Maine Coast Heritage Trust online for more information and a printable map or contact:
Marshall Island is located in Hancock County south of Swans Island. The preserve offers a dock for easy landing on the northeast side near Ringtown Island. Multiple beaches also offer small boat access.
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