Directions to trail head. Travel south on Route 102 to the intersection on the left (east) with Fernald Point Road a little north of the village of Southwest Harbor. Turn onto Fernald Point Road, and the parking lot is on the left (north side of road) in approximately 0.9 miles. (UTM: 19T 0554526, 4905375; Lat./Long.: N 44°17′53.5″ x W 68°18′59.3″)

Trail details. The trail climbs to an open view southeast to Greening Island and the islands of the town of Cranberry Isles ...

... and east across Somes Sound.

Just before the summit the trail passes through evidence of a former structure: three eyebolts (one shown here) and an iron pin and iron bar.

The summit is marked by sign ...

... plus two benchmarks and the remains of a third one.

After a short, somewhat steep descent, the trail changes to a level (or slightly descending) mostly root-covered path.

The roots become less frequent, giving way to mostly ledge.

The trail steepens momentarily, and you will come to a sign pointing to a side trail that leads to an overlook.

The overlook is a broad expanse of ledge with good views east across Somes Sound ...

... and north toward the head of the sound.

Returning to the trail, you will descend steadily with glimpses to the north and west of Somes Sound, Acadia Mountain, and St. Sauveur Mountain.

The end of the trail is at Valley Cove. (UTM: 19T 0554489, 4906207; Lat./Long.: N 44°18′25.5″ x W 68°19′00.6″)

From here you can turn left and follow the Valley Cove Road back to the parking lot ...

... or continue along the side of Valley Cove, following the arrow to the left (the back side of the sign shown above).

To contribute to this web page: All information (including images) should be e-mailed to info@vfthomas.com or sent by traditional mail to MDI Trails and Memorial Paths, c/o V. F. Thomas Co.; P. O. Box 400; Southwest Harbor, ME 04679.