Location: Lubec, Boot Head Preserve

Guides: Doug Hitchcox

Fee: no additional fee

Description: Boot Head Preserve features some of the most dramatic views of the Maine coastline. Enjoy it, along with fabulous birding, during this circular hike a little more than 2 miles long. Some trail sections are gradual and smooth, while other sections along the rocky coast require a lot of up-and-down hiking over a rocky trail. Sturdy footwear is recommended, and perhaps trekking poles.

A small bog near the trailhead offers the possibility of Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Hermit Thrush, Nashville Warbler, Palm Warbler, Lincoln’s Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow and Purple Finch.

The coniferous forest has large numbers of Magnolia Warblers and Black-throated Green Warblers. We should also encounter Red-breasted Nuthatch, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Winter Wren, Black-and-white Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler and Ovenbird. Spruce Grouse and Boreal Chickadee are often present. 

Stands of stunted spruce along the rocky headlands provide habitat for Blackpoll Warbler and Golden-crowned Kinglet. Common Eider and Black Guillemot will be on the water far below. Merlin have nested along the cliffs in some years.

GPS Coordinates:  44.775642, -67.031285

Directions: Follow 189 towards Lubec and take a right onto 191 in West Lubec. After 2.8 miles take a sharp left onto Boot Cove Road. Destination will be on your right in 2 miles.