Sears Island is 940 acres of open fields, mixed forest, wetlands, sandy beach, rocky beach, cliffs, streams, salt marshes, and bay. In short, it is a dog friendly paradise! Connected to Searsport, Maine by a causeway, the island is crisscrossed with approximately 6 miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate. Making Sears Island an interesting, yet haunting place to spend the day exploring with your dog.
Originally settled in the 1600s, over time the houses were abandoned by the 1930s. Today only foundations, old wells, moss covered stone walls, and heirloom apple trees remain to remind visitors of the island’s agricultural history. On the day we visited we hiked the somewhat overgrown Homestead Trail to the foundations of one of these old farmsteads. We were also pleasantly surprised to find just around the bend from it there is a field dedicated as a Monarch Butterfly habitat, with benches to rest and enjoy these beautiful butterflies.
From there we crossed onto the Jetty Road, which is approximately 1.5 miles of an abandoned paved road that lead to the old jetty. Vehicles are no longer allowed on the island. As beautiful and tranquil as this stretch of road was, there was something slightly unnerving walking along this abandoned road with grass growing in the cracks and the occasional sign of past habitation. Ok, I admit it. We started to look for zombies because it had a “Walking Dead” feel to it! However, we are happy we kept on going, because it lead to a scenic rocky beach. We also had fun exploring the rocks in search of hidden liquor bottles, dropped off there during Prohibition when smugglers were rumored to frequent this island.
Dogs are allowed at Sears Island under owner’s control. Please be aware that hunting is allowed here. Parking is available along the causeway, and there is a kiosk at the trailhead with a map to help guide your visit. Although there is some signage, the trails are still a work in progress by the Friends of Sears Island who hope to someday erect more signs and historical markers along the trails. Sears Island is open to visitors year round.
To plan your visit, including directions, weather forecast, and more photos, please visit our Sears Island page. To learn more about additional Scenic Walks, Hiking Trails and Dog Beaches in the Searsport, Maine area, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page.
