The Trails of Monhegan
Around 11 miles of trails fan out from the village, through the "wild lands" and along the perimeter, scaling cliffs that are the highest in Maine. Some of the trails, marked on the Trail Map, are suitable for families with small children or people with limited time or physical prowess; others are considerably more challenging. Wheels of any sort are not allowed beyond the fire trails.
Monhegan trails are narrow, rugged, and rocky with wet areas, exposed tree roots, steep climbs, sheer drops, and dense growth. Use this map to plan your route according to your ability. Wear appropriate footwear, carry sufficient water, use insect repellent and hike with a friend.
There are no "comfort stations" or garbage disposals on the trails, so plan accordingly.
Monhegan Associates Trail Map
This map is presented as information to those off-island who want to get an idea of the "lay of the land" before coming out. The Trail Map is available for a nominal cost from the boat ticket booths of the Monhegan Boat, the Hardy Boat, and the Balmy Days, and at various shops and trail-boxes around the island. If you enjoyed your visit and wish to help us in our efforts, please leave a donation in one of the green collection boxes on the island or by mail, or become a member of Monhegan Associates. Contact us at Monhegan Associates, Monhegan ME 04852, or email member@monheganassociates.org to join us. Please pick up the "real thing" as you arrive.
Trail Highlights
All directions are from Village.The Island is about .7 of a mile wide and 1.7 miles long.The trails are mapped to GPS points recorded in 2006. Monhegan is hilly: time required to walk a trail is greater than that needed on level ground.
From the wharf: Up the hill to the main north-south road. Turn right (south) to reach the center of the Village, restaurants and public toilets, Burnthead Trail, and Lobster Cove. Turn left (north) to reach the Library, the Schoolhouse, the Lighthouse Museum, Whitehead Trail (#7), etc.
About the Trails on the Map:
The trails, running through island woodlands and over cliffs, are on private land; please stay on the trails. Please do not pick wildflowers or uproot plants or moss.
Trails on the map are indicated by number,name, and level of difficulty, and marked at each end and at junctions with white trail numbers on small green blocks of wood on trees. Trails crossing ledges are also marked with cairns (small stacks of stones). Please do not disturb or build cairns.