Bill & Sallie Satterthwaite

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.

This hike is limited to 15 participants.

Meet at the Boot Head parking lot. From Whiting or the CCLC, take Rte 189 east toward Lubec. After 5.7 miles from Whiting or 4.0 miles from the CCLC turn right onto Rte 191 (Dixie Rd). Drive south 2.7 miles and turn left onto Boot Cove Rd, then drive east 1.9 miles. Or if coming from Lubec or West Quoddy Head via South Lubec Rd, turn onto Boot Cove Rd near the sharp bend in South Lubec Rd and drive west 3.9 miles, passing the Hamilton Cove Preserve. There are parking lots on both sides of the road. No restrooms.