Western Head

Western Head is just south of Cutler Harbor, located on Destiny Bay Road. It is one of the many gems conserved by the Maine Coast Heritage Trust. The 3-mile loop winds through spruce-fir forest typical of harsh maritime climates. Bald eagles invariably nest here and merlins often do. Hermit and Swainson’s thrushes, and winter wrens are very common. Look for crossbills feeding on spruce cones on the exposed cliff. The coastal views of Cutler Harbor should turn up common eider and black guillemot. As razorbills disperse from nearby Machias Seal Island, they sometimes may be seen from the head or even in the mouth of the harbor. The trail is wet and rough in places. It also crosses private property at the preserve entrance, so be sure to remain on the trail.

Directions: Just south of Cutler Harbor, turn onto Destiny Bay Road. (The road sign is not visible from the north.) The road is just north of Head of the River Baptist Church on Route 191. A small parking lot is located one mile from the turn.