Norton

Norton Island lies just west of Beals Island at the entrance to Moosabec Reach. The largest unbridged island in Western Bay, it is covered by a dense swath of spruce forest with fields and several structures at the north end. The owners who are in the process of rehabilitating and modifying the infrastructure for efficiency and sustainability are often in residence. Norton is also used periodically by the Eastern Frontier Educational Foundation, which runs residency programs on the island for writers, artists and musicians interested in honing their craft. All of this activity is concentrated at the north end of the island, which should be avoided.

Recreational visitors are invited to explore the lower 130 acres, which are undeveloped and accessible by a walking trail that rims most of the perimeter, marked by buoys. Along the southern third of the trail the markers change to cairns as it traverses the gentle ledges of the shore, revealing stunning southerly views. Norton's owners are keenly interested in the plant and animal communities that call the island home and welcome visitors to contribute any wildlife sightings or identifications made on the island to inaturalist, a citizen science app that showcases biodiversity across the globe. You can visit and contribute to Norton's biodiversity project [here](https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/norton-island-beals-maine-biodiversity-project)

Norton is open for day use anytime, but those interested in camping should call the owners ahead at 203-550-6364 to request permission. A campsite with room for a few tents can be found on the southwest point of the island near a prominent glacial erratic on shore. Short paths on either side of this small point lead to a tenting area nestled in the trees. The small cove just north of the point provides the best landing option, although it can be a challenge at lower tides. Please use camp stoves for cooking as campfires are not permitted on the island.