Hen

Originally added to the Maine Island Trail in 1989, Hen Island was closed to visitors for a time due to nesting eagles. After several consecutive years with no eagle nesting activity, the island has been reopened for day use and camping in 2025. There is still an active osprey nest on the south islet, however. Visitors are asked to avoid landing or walking on the south islet until July 1st.

Hen provides visitors with a tiny but protected spot from which one can explore and enjoy the waters surrounding Swans Island. Just north of Hen sits popular Buckle Island, which is also on the Trail. Much beloved, Buckle is a popular day use site drawing picnickers and hikers as well as mariners from around the world who often anchor in the protected cove between Buckle and Swans.

While technically one island, Hen has the feel of two separate islets due to the marshy vegetation that separates the two higher, forested ends to the north and south. A small campsite, suitable for one to two tents, is located on the northern tip of the north islet. While not observed directly in the campsite, poison ivy can be found growing in between the two islets. Visitors should be mindful while moving through the vegetation.

At higher tides it is feasible to land just east of the northernmost point of Hen Island. At lower tides, boats with bigger drafts would do well to land on the west side of the point where there is deeper water. No matter the vessel, visitors should approach with caution as there are several submerged rocks surrounding the island and scattered throughout the waters of Seal Cove.