Rutherford Island Preserve

Length: About .75 mile there and back

Difficulty:

  • easy

Permitted Use:

This trail was built by Coastal Rivers Trail Tamers during the summer of 2014 on a 15-acre property on Rutherford Island in South Bristol. An additional acre along the waterfront was added in 2022 thanks to the generosity of preserve neighbors, creating a permanent connection to the scenic rocky shore. Look for the sign along West Side Road directing you to the trailhead, which is located at the very start of Atlantic Avenue.

Managing organization: Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust

Trail Description:

The trail is essentially “in and back” to a lookout over the Damariscotta River with a small “lollipop” loop at the very end. Stone walls and other signs of historical agriculture are evident along the path. There is a bench at the trail’s end with views to the southwest toward the mouth of the Damariscotta River.

Preserve Guidelines:

Please click here for guidelines to this preserve.

>> Download a printable version of the preserve map here.

Map of Rutherford Island Preserve