Located atop Tower Hill, the Grand Lake Stream fire tower was built in 1934, and is the oldest enclosed wooden fire tower remaining in New England. Please DO NOT attempt to climb the tower, due to safety concerns.
From the tower, the trail begins 100 yards to the north and heads east, winding 1.1 miles through mixed woodlands. The trail travels through a ridge of mature red oak; keep an eye out for many of the white-tailed deer that live here, and the “whiskey barrel tree” that was struck by lightning.
After crossing Bonney Brook Road, the trail meanders through high bush blueberry and huckleberry along shallow Bonney Brook Lake. Look for ducks and flocks of foraging warblers in the warmer months.
Upon reaching the road again, turn right and follow the road for 50 yards, then turn left, continuing along the trail. The trail ends at a camp road called “Pappy’s Way.” Turn left and follow the snowmobile trail back up
Tower Hill, creating a 3-mile loop.
GUIDELINES
ABOUT THE DOWNEAST LAKES LAND TRUST
Downeast Lakes Land Trust (DLLT) is a nonprofit founded in 2001 by local residents in Grand Lake Stream, Maine. We contribute to the long-term economic and environmental well-being of the Downeast Lakes region through the conservation and exemplary management of its forests and waters. In 2001 we laid out our strategy for the future – a bold vision to protect extraordinary natural resources and a way of life. Many supporters and partners have helped us succeed in protecting 350,000 acres of the forests, wildlife habitats, watersheds, and lake shores that can sustain the regions future. DLLT sustainably manages the 55,678-acre Downeast Lakes Community Forest, with 90 miles of lake shore, for wildlife habitat, forest products, and public recreation.
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.
Downeast Phenology Trail
While visiting this beautiful trail take part in our scientific research project, which is part of the Downeast Phenology Trail. Millions of songbirds migrate south every fall along the northeast coastline. To get from here to there they need stopovers to refuel on fruits and insects. This hiking trail is one of those stopover locations.
As the climate changes, temperatures are going up. And as things heat up, fruits ripen and insects emerge earlier and earlier. But, birds are migrating south later and later. Will there be any fruits or insects left for the birds when they fly through our region? You can help us answer this question--check out our project website before you go for your hike.
Schoodic Institute is an independent 501c3 nonprofit organization committed to advancing ecosystem science and learning for all ages through a unique partnership with Acadia National Park. Schoodic Institute and Acadia National Park are national leaders in the development of new techniques to involve the public in science, education and conservation.
Visit the Downeast Lakes Land Trust online for more information or contact:
From US-1, turn onto Grand Lake Stream Road (which turns into Milford Road) and travel 10 miles to the village of Grand Lake Stream. Turn right onto Church Street and follow for about 0.4 miles, the road turns to dirt along the way. You will see the parking lot on the left.
Alternatively, you can park at the dam in town, and walk across the bridge, up the hill with the sign that says “Grand Lake Lodge,” and then follow the snowmobile trail signs up the hill toward the tower. This alternative is suggested for winter hiking.
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