The Birch Point Trail begins in an open blueberry field and leads 2.2 miles to the salt marshes and mudflats of Dyer Bay. Along the way the trail winds over varied terrain through mixed-wood and spruce-fir forest providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The trail, which follows old logging roads, is wide and mostly smooth, making it an excellent trail for a family or other group to walk side by side. Recent improvements in drainage and the installation of some raised walkways over wet spots and benches at scenic overlooks add comfort to the hike. Mostly out and back, it has a side trail to Lobster Cove and a loop at the end along cobbled beach with views of Sally Island and its bald eagle nest.The Fish and Wildlife Service has plans to install some creative interpretive signs soon that will explain the habitats and Refuge's management activities, and invite visitors to use their senses to explore aspects of the environment at each sign.
Petit Manan Point is part of the Maine Coastal Island National Wildlife Refuge (MCINWR), a complex of islands and coastal properties, stretching from York to Washington Counties, managed and preserved primarily for seabird nesting and coastal wading bird habitat. The Refuge includes four mainland units and over 50 islands, protecting a total of over 8,000 acres.
To protect the refuge's wildlife and habitats, while using the trails please comply with the following:
Visit Maine Coastal Island National Wildlife Refuge online for more information or contact:
Coming west on US Route 1 from Milbridge or east on US Route 1 from the Hancock-Washington County line, turn south onto Pigeon Hill Road in Steuben. Drive about 5.8 miles on the road to the Birch Point trailhead and parking area on the right. There is an informational kiosk and parking for approximately fifteen vehicles.
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