Preserve Details

trail length
2.3 miles
difficulty level
Challenging

Cliff Trail

Town of Harpswell

The Cliff Trail is one of the most popular trails in Harpswell. It is owned and managed by the Town of Harpswell. This is a rugged trail that includes a shore walk along tidal Strawberry Creek and spectacular views from 150-foot cliffs overlooking Long Reach.

The trail features an inclusive .4-mile shore walk along tidal Strawberry Creek with a nice view of the cascade and a resting area. This section of the trail was updated in 2021 to make a smooth wide path that is inclusive and accessible for individuals with limited mobility or that use mobility devices.

Beyond the inclusive trail is a rugged backcountry style trail with spectacular views from 150-foot cliffs overlooking Long Reach. Unbroken preserved forest stretches to the east and south of Long Reach.

The main loop, Cliff Trail, is 2.3 miles and marked in white blazes. The shorter cut-off trail is marked in yellow blazes.

Fairy house zones were added in celebration and memory of Lindsey Perkins. They provide children and adults alike a place for play and creativity. Please note the Fairy House Ordinances and follow the posted rules when creating your fairy house.

The reach itself is a submerged valley that is now tidal mudflats. Across the Reach is the 90-acre Long Reach Preserve. The island in Long Reach is unnamed.

Note: Please exercise caution along the cliff portion of the trail, keeping an eye on children and pets. There is a vertical drop up to 90 feet high in this section.

Visit the Town of Harpswell’s website for more information.

Directions

Click here to get directions from Google Maps.

The trailhead is at the far corner of the back parking lot at the Harpswell Town Office,  263 Mountain Road.

Visitor Guidelines

  • No overnight parking, no camping, no fires. No alcohol.
  • Carry in, carry out.
  • Do not pick or dig up any living things.
  • Dogs on leash from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily.
  • Dogs off leash and under owner control at all other times (under owner control means the dog is within sight and returns upon command).
  • Follow dog leash rules and carry out all dog waste.
  • Please report any damage to the Town of Harpswell.
  • Please respect private landowners’ properties.
  • Report unusual animal behavior or dog leash violations to the Animal Control Officer at 1-800-501-1111.
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