High
St George area · Casco Bay
- Trail Trails on island
- Size ~20 acres
- Coordinates 43.972° N, 69.185° W
- Owner Maine Coast Heritage Trust
Description
Acquired by [Maine Coast Heritage Trust](https://www.mcht.org/) in 2016, High Island sits among a cluster of islands guarding the entrance to Tenants Harbor. Located about a half mile from shore and within easy reach of nearby boat launches, the island is a good destination for those with limited experience boating in marine waters. Visitors to High should be mindful of commercial boating traffic in Tenants Harbor and the considerable ledges extending from the northwest shore of the island.
The best landing spot is in the north-facing cove along the sheltered northwest shore. From here, a trail leads to a campsite just south of the landing beach and to a picnic area at the northwest point of the island. The picnic site contains a granite fire ring made out of foundation stones from a former two-story house that was demolished and removed by MCHT due to its failing condition. The trail continues beyond the picnic area down the western shore before winding through the forested interior to complete a loop back to the landing beach. Please note that a portion of the trail is closed seasonally (April 1 to August 1) to protect nesting great blue herons.
The island campsite is available except when reserved for the occasional private event. Visit The MCHT [High Island Preserve page](mcht.org/preserve/high-island) to ensure availability. Groups of 6 or more and commercial uses should contact MCHT for permission to camp by calling 207-729-7366 or emailing stewardship@mcht.org.
Details
Anchorage
Anchor just northwest of the island but be careful on the approach as significant ledges extend to the north and west.
Amenities
Hiking trails
Guidelines
Limit stay to 2 nights. Groups of 6 or more and commercial users by permission only. Call 207-729-7366 or email stewardship@mcht.org. The campsite is periodically unavailable due to scheduled events, check mcht.org/preserve/high-island to ensure availability prior to your visit.
Campfires permitted. Must be smaller than 3 feet and kept below high tide line or in the designated fire ring.
Keep pets under voice or leash control and pack out solid waste.
Ospreys nest near the campsite and great blue herons nest in the interior. A portion of the trail is seasonally closed (April 1 – August 1) to protect the herons.