Trailhead
From East: Going towards Oquossoc Village, Rangeley, approximately 3.0 miles on ME Route 4 North from the intersection of ME Routes 4 and 16 in downtown Rangeley. Look for sign and parking area on left.
From West: Going towards downtown Rangeley, 3.5 miles from the junction of ME Routes 4 and 17 in Oquossoc Village and just over 3.0 miles from the junction of ME Routes 4 and 16 look for sign and parking area on right.
Description
The Hunter Cove Wildlife Sanctuary trail system is on 100 acres of forested lands bordering on Rangeley Lake. The trails lead out to a beautiful section of Hunter Cove on Rangeley Lake with a few benches for picnic opportunities. The property hosts an abundance of habitats for song birds, wading birds, amphibians; there is also a deer wintering area. This is a popular place for bird watching, snowshoeing and backcountry skiing. There are several wet areas with bog bridging, but prepare to possibly get your feet wet.
The property was acquired by the Maine Audubon Society in 1974. Because of the challenge of maintaining the property from their headquarters in Falmouth, Audubon donated the property to Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust in 2004 as part of an effort to ensure local stewardship and proper management .
Other Information
As with all Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust properties, there is a carry-in, carry-out policy. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pet.
Trail Manager
Contact the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust for further information:
Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust
P.O. Box 249
Oquossoc, ME 04964
Phone: (207) 864-7311
Fax: (207) 864-7301
srousseau@rlht.org
Photos
Photo courtesy:Shelby Rousseau
Excellent place for bird watching, and seeing wildlife. Lovely forests and pretty water views. Flat trails, though uneven and unimproved, lots of walking over wet areas on planks. Be prepared for wet feet in spring time, and bring your bug spray in the spring/early summer.
Hiked this trail on our visit to Saddleback over the weekend. The trail was packed enough that snowshoes weren't necessary even though there is still quite a bit of snow in places. I wish folks would pick up after their dogs - it all adds up to quite a mess as the snow melts! This trail must be popular with dog walkers, although we didn't see anyone out there this weekend.