Carrying Place Preserve
The newest IHT preserve on the island — trails opened in 2024 after geologist and longtime IHT volunteer Ann Hooke donated the land she'd been stewarding for years. The trails are tight and rooty, the terrain changes quickly, and it's still relatively uncrowded.
Photos via Google Maps · Marybeth Judy
Carrying Place Preserve was donated to Island Heritage Trust in 2023 by Ann Hooke, a geologist and long-time IHT friend who wanted the public to be able to experience what she described as "many pockets of wonder — magical micro-climates for plants and creatures." The trails formally opened in 2024, making this one of the most recently accessible preserves on the island.
The 1.5-mile trail system runs along the salt marsh shorelines of Long Cove and up to Bray's Mountain, one of the highest points of elevation on Deer Isle. The terrain changes fast: from tidal flats and salt marsh edges where ospreys, eagles, kingfishers, and shorebirds hunt, up through coastal forest with significant elevation changes and exposed roots. The Cove View Trail and Shoreline Trail are the easiest routes — good for an out-and-back with water views. The full preserve goes moderate to strenuous.
Directions from the IHT website: driving south past Deer Isle village on ME-15, turn left on Sunshine Road (across from Mill Pond Irving), follow 1.7 miles, parking lot on the right.
What Visitors Say
"Enjoyable woods trail with moderate hiking due to roots. Undulating but no steep areas in my estimation."
"Easy trail loop, peaceful moss and woodlands"
Local Tips
- This is a newer preserve — trails are less worn, which means more root exposure and less obvious routing. Pay attention.
- The Cove View and Shoreline trails are the most navigable; start there before committing to the full elevation gain.
- Tidal shore access at the point of Shore Trail — check tide times if you want mudflat views.
- Hunting is permitted; contact IHT for details. If you visit in fall, wear orange.
Connected To
- Shore Acres Preserve — also off Sunshine Road/Greenlaw District Rd, similar coastal forest and cove views; more established trail system
- Edgar M. Tennis Preserve — further out Sunshine Road, the most-loved IHT hike on the island
- Mariners Memorial Park — also accessible from Sunshine Road, different character (meadow, memorial, easier terrain)