Harriman Point, Brooklin
In Brooklin, Harriman Point’s beaches boast spectacular views across Blue Hill Bay to Mount Desert Island. Welcome to Blue Hill Peninsula’s largest continuous stretch of coastline open to the public.
Harriman Point is great for:
- Beachcombing – Take your time to discover what’s hidden along the nearly two miles of shoreline: colorful sea shells, endless tide pools, polished stones, and unique rock formations.
- Hiking – Follow the old road for a relaxing one-mile trek to the former Harriman homestead, where two spurs branch off to opposite shores of the peninsula.
- Birdwatching – Bring your binoculars; Harriman Point is a popular stopping point during migration and the peninsula welcomes many resident species as well.
How to get there
From the junction of Routes 172 and 175, south of Blue Hill, follow Route 175 toward Brooklin. Continue 7.5 miles and then turn left onto Harriman Point Road. Drive 0.5 mile to the parking lot on the right. The town generously granted MCHT an easement for this parking lot. To access the preserve from the parking lot, follow the trail across the street. Please respect the privacy of our preserve neighbors by staying on the designated path and parking only in the designated parking area.
For a complete map with legend and guidelines, click on the Printable Preserve Map above.
Discovering Harriman Point’s history
Evidence of Harriman Point’s history, dating back to the late eighteenth century, can be seen in the foundations and stonewalls that remain today. The peninsula was settled by the Harriman family in 1795. Subsequent landowners have also left their marks on the peninsula. Please enjoy these artifacts from the past, but in a manner that allows future guests to have the same experience of discovery.
Harriman Point also provides a view west across Allen Cove, towards the former residence of E.B. White, acclaimed writer and children’s book author of such classics as Stuart Little (1945) and Charlotte’s Web (1952).
Tips from the MCHT Land Steward
“When visiting during the summer months, be sure to pack your bug juice. There can be lots of mosquitos on the walk in.”
Notes on topography, flora & fauna
This 138-acre preserve comprises most of Harriman Point, a scenic peninsula in Brooklin.
The point is largely wooded, but also contains forested wetlands, saltmarshes and a 1.3-acre bog. However, Harriman Point’s most notable features are its shell and gravel beaches along its eastern shore. In addition to scenic views, Harriman Point is a wonderful destination for wildlife observation, especially for birdwatchers during spring and fall migration.
How Harriman Point became open to the public
Harriman Point was first protected by a conservation easement held by MCHT in October 2014. The late Susan Lyman Drew generously donated the point to MCHT in 2015. After receiving notice of this exceptional gift, MCHT staff members began gathering community input in order to integrate residents’ needs and concerns into preserve planning. Dozens of community members contributed toward a stewardship fund to help cover the land’s long-term upkeep, allow for annual payments in lieu of taxes, and provide trails for walking, snowshoeing, and skiing. Conservation of Harriman Point was truly a joint effort – thank you to all involved.
This place belongs to all of us. Help us take care of it!
Preserve information/guidelines
- Please Respect the Privacy of Preserve Neighbors
- No parking on Tinkers Lane
- No Camping Permitted
- No Fires Permitted
- Carry Out All Trash
- Including Human and Pet Waste and Toilet Paper
- Keep Pets Under Strict Voice or Leash Control
- Do Not Remove Archaeological Artifacts
