Head of Tide

Description

A loop may be made on the River Trail to the north (1 mile), the Woods Trail to the south (1 mile) or around both trails (1.6 miles). The River Trail travels through open fields of former farmland, to the high banks of the Passagassawakeag River, providing scenic views of the river. The Woods Trail, as its name implies, is entirely forested, except for when it crosses a powerline corridor.

Osprey, bald eagles, and belted kingfisher often fly along the river. The fields provide habitat for nesting birds and monarch butterflies. Evidence of past farming may be seen in the form of remnants of old stone walls and apple trees.

The group Belfast Transition manages an educational and interactive permaculture garden on this preserve near the trailhead. There are picnic tables by the garden for all to enjoy.

This preserve is a part of the Passagassawakeag Greenway, a system of trails along the undeveloped upper reaches of the river (known by locals as “The Passy”), which flows into Belfast Harbor.

Other Information

PRESERVE GUIDELINES

• Open for low-impact public recreation during daylight hours.
• Bicycles, motorized vehicles, and horses are prohibited.
• Camping and fires are not allowed.
• Removal of vegetation is not allowed.
• Dogs must be leashed at all times.
• Drones are not allowed except by permitted use.
• Groups larger than 12 must obtain Land Trust permission prior to use.
• Hunting is permitted, but hunting of predators and trapping is forbidden.

Trail Manager

For additional information, visit the Coastal Mountains Land Trust website, or contact: