Witherle Woods

MCHT acquired the Witherle Woods in 2018 with funding from the Land for Maine’s Future Program (LMF) and a National Coastal Wetland Conservation Grant from the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).

This 193-acre preserve on scenic Castine peninsula features a forest of red and white spruce, balsam fir, white pine, and several hardwood stands. Over the past decade, the woods have experienced a high level of mortality due to old age and insect damage. After storms in 2007-2008 caused major blowdowns, MCHT worked with a forester and logger to salvage the timber, ensure public safety, and prepare for a healthy future forest.

Begin at the Battle Avenue parking area and follow the dirt road to the kiosk near the top of the hill. Turn right, hike past the remains of a forward battery constructed here in 1779, and continue to the third trail junction. Bear left onto the wide path as it descends gradually for about three-quarters of a mile to the former Furieuse Battery 1 site, built in 1814 by the British. The trail quickly reaches a short spur on the left that rises to the Lookout, a vantage point from which British troops occupying Castine watched for enemy forces approaching on Penobscot Bay.

Past the spur, the main trail continues past the Furieuse Battery 2 site to a junction with the Indian Trail. Turn right and follow the trail as it descends steeply towards the water’s edge. The path then turns left to parallel Penobscot Bay, occasionally offering scenic views. Eventually, the path swings sharply left and climbs the steep hillside. At the next trail junction, turn left and then take the next two rights to return to the kiosk and complete the loop.