Enjoy a tranquil dog friendly walk surrounded by the ocean and fairy houses at Mackworth Island in Falmouth, Maine.  Located just minutes away from Portland, Mackworth Island is a scenic 1.5 mile walk around the perimeter of the island, with picturesque views of Casco Bay and its many islands.  Dogs are allowed on-leash on both the path and along the rocky shore.

One of the many unique features of this trail is “Mackworth Island Community Village,” home to an elaborate collection of fairy houses.  Visitors are encouraged to make their own fairy house using the natural materials on the island in order to welcome these elusive winged friends.  Adding to the magic of this walk are wooden swings nestled amongst the trees with scenic water views.  There is also a pet cemetery for the fourteen Irish Setters who once called this island home, when it was the summer residence of Percival Baxter.

Please respect the private property used by The Baxter School for the Deaf, by keeping your dog leashed and on the perimeter path.  Connected to the mainland by a causeway, parking is limited to approximately 20 cars, and does fill up quickly during peak hours.  Owned by the State of Maine, admission for Maine Residents Adults $3.00, Nonresident Adults $4.00, Children age 5-11 $1.00, Under age 5 Free.

To learn more about other dog beaches, trails, and scenic walks in the Portland, Maine area, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page.

Mackworth Island Get Directions:

From South: Coming from I-295 northbound, take ramp right for US Route 1/Blue Star Memorial Highway. Drive 1.3 miles to Andrew Avenue and turn right. The trailhead and parking lot are in 0.7 miles at end of causeway.

From North: Take I-295 southbound to Exit 10. Turn left and drive 0.4 miles before turning right on US Route 1. Follow for 2 miles and then turn left on Andrews Avenue. The parking lot and trailhead are in 0.7 miles at end of causeway.