History: In the early 18th century, the British Navy used the huge white pines that grew in this area for the masts of their ships. It was the site of a saw mill, workshop, textile mill, and two grist mills, all powered by the Mill Stream. A house built by mill owner Abner Dennsion in 1795 is still in use as a private residence for sanctuary caretakers. The land was donated by the Smith Family and in 1962, Mast Landing Audubon was created.
Wildlife Species: Wildlife is typical of what you would expect to find in Mid-Coast Maine. Migrating water fowl and New England songbirds are easily observed. Bird watchers come in the spring to view the courtship ritual of the American Woodcock involving a sky dance, dives and calls. It is one of the few times you can observe woodcock as they are usually well camouflaged. Many mammals make their home in the sanctuary, including the American Mink, North American Porcupine, Snowshoe Hare, White-tailed Deer, Coyotes, and Northern Raccoons.
Recreational Activities: Visitors enjoy walking, birding, observing wildlife, snowshoeing and summer day camp activities for kids.
Trails: All of the trails at the sanctuary can be accessed from the Ridge Trail.
- Ridge Trail (1.6 mi)
- Orchard and Deer Run Trails (0.5 mi)
- Mill Stream Trail (0.3 miles)
- Bench Loop Trail (0.25 miles)
- Estuary Trail (0.4 miles)
Season: Mast Landing is open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year.
Fees: There is no charge for entrance to the sanctuary but donations are welcome and appreciated.
Directions & Parking: Take exit 22 from I-295 and merge onto ME-125 S/ME-136 S/Mallet Dr toward Freeport. Make a right onto Main Street and then take a left on to Bow St. Go a mile and turn left on Upper Mast Landing Rd. The turn will be on the right and parking is located on the left.
