Shackford Head Coastal Trails

Best Time to Visit: The best time to hike is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is warmer, and visitors don’t have to contend with ice or snow. Arrive earlier in the day for the best chance at finding a parking spot.

Season/Hours of Operation: Open year-round from dawn to dusk. During bald eagle nesting season, some trails may be closed. Signs will be posted.

Parking: Parking is available off Deep Cove Road and Cony Beach.

Trails:

• Schooner Head, Ship Point, and Shackford Head Trail Loop: This trail is a 2.4-mile loop of moderate difficulty. Hikers can access the beach from the loop. There are a number of scenic lookouts for beautiful water or island views, including Broad Cove, Deep Cove, and Smalls Cove. Terrain includes gravel, rocks, boards, mud, and/or ice (seasonal), roots, and forest.
• Shackford Head and Ship Point Trail: This easy trail is just 1.7 miles out and back. Visitors have stunning views of Cobscook Bay, Broad Cove, Campobello Island, and New Brunswick, Canada. Terrain includes forest, dirt paths, roots, and seasonal mud and/or ice.
• Schooner Head Trail: This trail is 2.5 miles out and back and considered moderately challenging. Terrain includes forest, rocks, uneven paths, roots, and seasonal mud and/or ice. Schooner Overlook has amazing views of Deep Cove and Cobscook Bay.

Shackford Head Trail Highlights:

• Schooner Head Trail has a nice picnic area at the trailhead.
• Experts have noted at least 28 different species of birds in the park, including bald eagles and sandpipers.

Shackford Head Geographical Overview: