Choose your own adventure at Boot Head Preserve in Lubec, Maine! With over 2 miles of trails, hikers can explore cobble beaches, steep rocky shorelines, rare raised coastal peatland, upland forests, and views of Maine’s quintessential headlands. Overall the trails are moderate, with some difficult areas for dogs.
On the day we visited, we followed the main trail which is a mix of bog bridges and forest floor, to the first spilt. Right leads to the bog, which is a raised coastal peatland. Also known as Boot Cove Heath, it requires very specific environmental conditions to form this special habitat. Left takes you to the platform viewing area with breathtaking views of Grand Manan Channel and the Bay of Fundy. We decided to head to the platform.
Next we had the choice between Brook Cove Beach or Boot Cove Beach. This is our one complaint about Boot Head Preserve. Although the trails are well marked, the corresponding map available online doesn’t label these landmarks. It doesn’t even include the Bog Trail. So we paused a moment to decide which beach trail leads to the platform. Prior to our visit we printed out the trail map, giving us a good idea of which way to go based on the terrain. We decided to head towards Brook Cove Beach.
Our gamble paid off, and after a steep climb we were treated to a scenic viewing platform with a bench, and views of the rugged coastline.
After enjoying the view of the rocky headlands, and resting the paws, along with refueling with a snack, we continued on the path bearing left towards Brook Cove Beach. Here is where the trail got difficult for paws with steep stairs and rocks to scramble over. However, as a seasoned hiker, it was worth the challenge for the magnificent view. The sun even came out for us!
Again we spent a while there marveling at the beauty around us, while resting the paws. Alright, there was a lot of hugging and tears too, because I went on this hike three weeks to the day of my surgery. There was a time we thought I’d never be able to do this again.
At this point we had the option of continuing to the cobble Brook Cove Beach, or returning to the platform viewing area. We decided to double back to take one last look from the platform.
After soaking in the view there again, we eventually bid farewell to Boot Head Preserve, and headed back to our car.
Dogs are allowed at Boot Head Preserve under control. We recommend leashing dogs while exploring the rocky outcroppings. Also stay on the established trails and boardwalks to protect the fragile vegetation, always clean up after your pet, and respect the wildlife who call this preserve home. Be aware that weather conditions can change rapidly here, so please plan accordingly because cell service is sporadic at best. Parking is available on both sides of Boot Cove Road. Look for the sign at the trailhead. Maintained by Maine Coast Heritage Trust, to learn more about Boot Head Preserve visit MCHT.org.
