In celebration of National Take a Hike Day, we are sharing another trail we explored during our Bold Coast adventure. Race Point, in Trescott, Maine, is known for its dramatic reversing falls. The Passamaquoddy called the area Kapskuk, which translates to “place where the water looks like it is boiling.” When the water of Cobscook’s Bay reaches the the area between Mahar Point and Falls Island, it drops 12 feet forcing it to “boil up” over the rocks on the incoming tide, and crashes like a waterfall on the outgoing tide. With scenic overlooks, it is easy to end your hike right there marveling at the reversing falls, or continue on to the open meadow which provides a perfect spot for a picnic. There are even screened-in pavilions to enjoy your picnic away from the black flies and mosquitoes notorious in Maine during the spring and summer.
On the day we visited, we began our hike on Race Point Trail to the Reversing Falls Trail. There we spent some time marveling at the current as it rushed past during low tide. We then continued on that trail, which is lined with old apple trees, and looped our way back to the Long Meadow Pavilion Trail, before heading back on Race Point to the parking lot. With approximately 3 miles of trails, Race Point is a great place to explore, and on a personal note in October the apple trees make this trail smell amazing.
Dogs are allowed on-leash at Race Point. Dog waste must be cleaned up in order to protect the water quality and prevent clam flat closures. CAUTION: The currents can change quickly, and it is unsafe to wade or swim at any time. Please keep dogs out of the water! Also be advised that cell service is unreliable. Finding Race Point can be a little tricky. It is located at the end of Crows Neck Road on what was once Kelly Point Road in Trescott. When Crows Neck Road ends, keep driving on the narrow dirt lane, and it will eventually open up to a parking area. Maintained by Cobscook Shores, Race Point is open dawn to dusk May through October. For more hiking trails in the area, including nearby Bog Brook Cove at Moose Cove, please visit our Dog Friendly Places recommendations.
