The Mainelander — Guest Portal

Guest Agreement

Please read and acknowledge before your arrival

By completing your booking you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to all terms outlined in this agreement. This agreement is a condition of your reservation at The Mainelander, 8 Lois Ln, Gouldsboro, ME 04607.

Tiny Home Acknowledgment

This property is a custom-built tiny home. It is not a conventional house and certain features may not conform to standard residential building codes. By staying here you acknowledge and accept the following.

The home includes sleeping lofts accessed by ladders and small staircases. Ceiling height in the lofts is limited. There are areas throughout the home where headroom is reduced. You are responsible for exercising caution when using lofts, ladders, staircases, and all areas of the home.

Guests assume all risk of injury related to the unique characteristics of this property including but not limited to low ceilings, loft access, ladders, compact staircases, and any other features that differ from standard residential construction. The property owners are not liable for any injury resulting from the use or misuse of these features.

Outdoor Amenities and Liability

The property includes outdoor amenities that are available for guest use entirely at the guest's own risk. The property owners are not liable for any injury, damage, illness, or loss arising from the use of any outdoor amenity on the property.

Kayaks and Pond Access. The property has kayaks and access to a pond. A life preserver throw and life jackets are available on shore. There is no lifeguard. Water conditions can change without warning. Guests are solely responsible for their own safety and the safety of anyone in their party while using the kayaks or accessing the water. The property owners assume no liability for drowning, injury, or any other incident related to water activities.

Outdoor Soaking Tub. Use of the outdoor soaking tub is at your own risk. Guests are responsible for exercising caution when entering, using, and exiting the tub.

Fire Pit. The fire pit must be attended at all times when in use. Do not make fires outside the designated fire pit area. A garden hose is located in a plastic storage box near the deck and a fire extinguisher is located inside the home. Guests are responsible for fully extinguishing all fires before leaving the fire pit area. The property owners are not liable for any injury, property damage, or loss caused by guest use of the fire pit.

Charcoal Grill. Use of the charcoal grill is at your own risk. Guests are responsible for the safe handling of charcoal, lighter fluid, and any other materials they bring for use with the grill. The property owners are not liable for any injury, fire, property damage, or loss resulting from use of the grill.

EV Charger. A SEGUMA Level 2 EV charger (Model EV-ACS2402U, 24 amp, 5760 watt, J1772 connector, 30 amp circuit) is installed at the left rear of the home. The charger is provided as a convenience only and its use is entirely optional and at the guest's sole risk. The property owners make no representations or warranties regarding the charger's compatibility, performance, safety, or suitability for any specific vehicle make, model, or year. Charging systems and vehicle requirements vary by manufacturer. It is the guest's sole responsibility to verify that this charger is compatible with their vehicle, to understand their vehicle manufacturer's charging requirements, and to follow all instructions provided by their vehicle manufacturer before connecting. The property owners are not liable for any damage to vehicles, batteries, charging systems, electrical components, onboard computers, personal property, or persons resulting from use of the charger including but not limited to electrical surges, charging malfunctions, equipment failure, connector issues, or vehicle incompatibility. By using the charger the guest accepts full responsibility for any and all consequences of its use. If you are unsure whether this charger is appropriate for your vehicle, do not use it.

Smoking and Substance Policy

Smoking of any kind is strictly prohibited anywhere on the property. This includes but is not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, marijuana, vaporizers, e-cigarettes, and any other tobacco or cannabis product. This applies inside the home, on the deck, in the yard, and in the driveway.

If evidence of smoking is found by our cleaning staff a fee of $600 will be charged to cover the cost of deep cleaning required to remove smoke residue and odor from the home.

The use, possession, or storage of any illegal substance on the property is strictly prohibited. The use of any legal or illegal substance that impairs judgment or motor function is done at the guest's own risk. The property owners are not liable for any injury, accident, or incident that occurs while a guest is under the influence of any substance including but not limited to alcohol, marijuana, prescription medication, or any other intoxicant. Guests assume full responsibility for their own behavior and safety at all times.

House Rules and Property Care

Maximum occupancy is 4 guests. Visitors beyond the registered party are not permitted to stay overnight.

Pets are welcome. Pets must be supervised at all times when outside and must not be left unattended on the property. Please keep pets off furniture and carpets to the extent possible and clean up after them in the yard.

Quiet hours are observed out of respect for our neighbors. This is a small rural community and we ask that you keep noise to a reasonable level at all times.

Please keep shoes especially muddy ones outside. Please try to keep mud and dirt off carpets and furniture.

Do not unplug or tamper with the security cameras or the Blink wifi bridge. Cameras are positioned at the front door and driveway only. There are no cameras inside the home or in the tub area.

Check-in is at 3:00 PM. Check-out is at 10:00 AM. Late checkouts are not available. Our cleaning staff arrives shortly after 10:00 AM and cannot accommodate delays. Failure to vacate by checkout time may result in additional charges.

Upon checkout please pile all towels in the bathroom, turn off all lights, sign out of any apps on the TV, wash and put away all dishes, and place trash in the dumpster on site. Heat or air conditioning may be left on at the temperature you found comfortable.

General Assumption of Risk and Hold Harmless

This property is located in rural coastal Maine. The natural environment includes but is not limited to wildlife, insects, ticks, uneven terrain, wooded areas, water access, and variable weather conditions. These are inherent to the location and are not within the control of the property owners.

Guests assume all risk associated with their stay at this property including but not limited to injury, illness, property damage, or loss arising from the use of the home and its features, outdoor amenities, the surrounding environment, wildlife encounters, insect bites, tick-borne illness, weather events, fire, falling trees, uneven ground, wet or icy surfaces, and any other condition of the property or its surroundings.

The guest agrees to hold harmless and release the property owners, Logan and Ashley Czaja, from any and all claims, demands, actions, suits, damages, liabilities, costs, and expenses including attorney fees arising from or related to the guest's stay at the property. This release applies to all guests, visitors, and pets in the booking party.

This agreement does not waive any rights that cannot be waived under applicable law.

Acknowledgment

By completing your booking you confirm that you have read and agree to all terms in this agreement. You confirm that you will communicate these terms to all members of your party. You understand that violation of any terms may result in additional charges, early termination of your stay without refund, or both.

If you have any questions about this agreement please message us through your booking platform before your arrival.

Sign This Agreement

To complete your check-in, please sign the agreement on our secure signing page.

Sign Agreement

Thank you for choosing The Mainelander. We look forward to hosting you.

Logan and Ashley Czaja

Check-in Instructions

Everything you need to find us and get settled

Finding Us

The address is 8 Lois Ln, Gouldsboro, ME 04607. GPS is accurate but the road sign for Lois Ln is easy to miss from Route 1.

Heading on Route 1, look for Clinic Rd on the right side. This is a larger road and easy to spot. When you see it, slow down and start watching for the next turns.
After Clinic Rd you will see a sign for Luther Ln. You are not turning here but it is easier to see and means you are almost there.
Lois Ln is the next turn after Luther Ln. It is a small sign and hard to see until you are right on it. This is your turn onto a gravel road.
Once on Lois Ln, our driveway is on the left side. It is the only one there so you will not miss it once you are on the gravel.

Getting In

Door Code: 6278

This is a PIN code on the deadbolt lock. Just enter the code and turn the lock.

We also have a lockbox on the small grey shed with a backup key in case of emergency. The lockbox code is the same as the door code.

Check-in and Check-out Times

Check-in: 3:00 PM

Check-out: 10:00 AM

It is very important that you abide by the check-out time. Our cleaner often arrives at 10:15 or 10:30 to get the home ready for the next guest. If you are running late due to extenuating circumstances please message us, but we cannot accept requests for late checkouts due to high demand and limited cleaning staff.

If you know you will be arriving earlier than check-in, please let us know and we will do our best to work with your schedule.

WiFi

Network: Verizon Network

Password: Redden5Rice9Peg (case sensitive)

Security Camera

We have a security camera at the front door and driveway. There are no cameras inside or anywhere near the tub area. The camera view stops at the top step of the deck. We do not check them during your stay without reason. Please do not unplug the Blink wifi bridge.

EV Charger

We have an EV charger located at the left rear of the home. The cord reaches across the driveway. It is a Level 2 charger with a J1772 connector. Tesla owners will need their own adapter. Use of the charger is at your own discretion and subject to the terms in your guest agreement. Please review the agreement for details.

Grill and Fire Pit

The grill is charcoal. We do not provide charcoal or lighter fluid but there are lighters in the kitchen drawer. Use of the grill is at your own risk and subject to the terms in your guest agreement.

We do not provide firewood for the fire pit but there are multiple stands on the way in selling campfire wood on the cash honor system.

Please do not leave any fires unattended and do not make fires outside the fire pit area. There is a hose located in a plastic storage box near the deck and a fire extinguisher inside the house.

Pets

If you have pets with you please keep them supervised when outside and do not leave them unattended. Please do your best to keep muddy paws off the furniture and carpets.

Ticks

New England ticks are active during the season. Please check yourselves and your pets daily.

Making the Most of the Space

We have personally found that unloading clothes into the chaise storage at the end of the bed in the main loft and into the baskets in the guest loft makes the most use of the space. Storing suitcases in the car until it is time to load up frees up the shelving and hangers for hoodies and other items and the lower racks for shoes. Of course feel free to use the space however you like.

Please try to keep shoes especially muddy ones outside.

Instructions on the Fridge

There are instructions on the refrigerator for the kayaks, grill, and other things around the property. Please take a look when you get in.

Contact

Phone: 336-970-1978

Texting or messaging through your booking platform is the best way to reach us. We often do not answer calls from numbers we do not recognize due to spam but you are welcome to call if you need to.

Check-out

Check-out is at 10:00 AM. Our cleaner arrives shortly after so we appreciate you being out on time.

Before You Go

Pile all towels in the bathroom
Turn off all the lights
Make sure the TV is signed out of any apps
Wash and put away all dishes
Put your trash in the dumpster on site
Heat or air conditioning can be left on at the temperature you found comfortable

Thank you so much for staying with us. We hope to see you again.

Logan and Ashley Czaja

Welcome

8 Lois Ln, Gouldsboro, ME 04607

We are so happy to have you here. This guide has everything you need to settle in, explore the area, and make the most of your stay on the Schoodic Peninsula.

If you need anything at all, text or message us through your booking platform. We are here to help.

Door Code: 6278

WiFi Network: Verizon Network

WiFi Password: Redden5Rice9Peg (case sensitive)

Check-in: 3:00 PM

Check-out: 10:00 AM

Contact: 336-970-1978 (text preferred)

Logan and Ashley Czaja

Finding Us

GPS will get you here but the road sign for Lois Ln is easy to miss from Route 1. Here is how to find us.

Look for Clinic Rd on the right side of Route 1. This is a larger road and easy to spot. When you see it, slow down and start watching.
After Clinic Rd you will see a sign for Luther Ln. You are not turning here but it is easier to see and means you are almost there.
Lois Ln is the next turn after Luther Ln. Small sign, hard to see until you are right on it. This is your turn onto a gravel road.
Our driveway is on the left side of Lois Ln. It is the only one there so you will not miss it.

Park anywhere in the driveway.

Getting Settled

The door uses a PIN code on the deadbolt. Just enter the code and turn the lock. There is also a lockbox on the small grey shed with a backup key. The lockbox code is the same as the door code.

Making the Most of the Space

We have found that unloading clothes into the chaise storage at the end of the bed in the main loft and into the baskets in the guest loft works best. Store suitcases in the car until it is time to load up. This frees up the shelving and hangers for hoodies and other items and the lower racks for shoes.

Of course feel free to use the space however you like.

Please try to keep shoes, especially muddy ones, outside.

Your Outdoor Space

Soaking Tub

The covered outdoor soaking tub is all yours. There are no cameras in the tub area. The camera view stops at the top step of the deck.

Fire Pit

We do not provide firewood but there are multiple stands on the way in selling campfire wood on the cash honor system. Please keep fires inside the fire pit area and attended at all times. A garden hose is in the plastic storage box near the deck and there is a fire extinguisher inside the house.

Kayaks and Pond

Kayaks are available for use on the pond. Life jackets and a life preserver throw are on shore. Check the instructions on the refrigerator before heading out.

Picnic Area

Grill

The grill is charcoal. We do not provide charcoal or lighter fluid but there are lighters in the kitchen drawer.

EV Charger

A Level 2 EV charger with a J1772 connector is located at the left rear of the home. The cord reaches across the driveway. Tesla owners will need their own adapter. Please review the guest agreement for details on charger use.

Schoodic Peninsula and Acadia

You are staying on the Schoodic Peninsula, the only mainland section of Acadia National Park. This is the quiet side. No crowds, no Cadillac Mountain traffic jams. Spectacular scenery with a fraction of the visitors.

Schoodic Loop Road

A 6-mile one-way scenic drive starting just past Winter Harbor. Multiple pulloffs with ocean views. The whole drive with stops takes 1 to 2 hours. This is the single best thing to do on your first day. 20 min

Raven's Nest

An overlook along the Schoodic Loop that you will not forget. Worth timing with sunset if you can.

Anvil Trail

1.1 miles, moderate, with steep sections and incredible ocean and mountain views from the top. This is the hike to do on Schoodic. 14 min to trailhead

More Trails on Schoodic

Schoodic Head Trail 14 min

0.6 miles, moderate. Highest point on the peninsula at 440 ft. Panoramic views.

Alder Trail 14 min

0.6 miles, easy and flat. Great for kids. Butterflies and wildflowers.

Buck Cove Mountain Trail 14 min

3.4 miles, the longest trail on the peninsula. Connects to Schoodic Head.

Taft Point

A 65-acre preserve on Flanders Bay with easy loop trails and panoramic views of the Acadia mountains. Very close to home and perfect for a quick sunset walk. 10 min

Park Passes

Vehicle pass (7 days): $35

Annual pass: $70

America the Beautiful pass: $80 (all national parks)

Kids 15 and under: Free

The park is cashless. Credit or debit only. Buy passes at recreation.gov or at the Schoodic Institute gatehouse (24/7, credit card).

Getting to Bar Harbor

You can drive to Bar Harbor through Ellsworth in about an hour. But the ferry from Winter Harbor is the way to go. It is 10 minutes to the dock and 45 minutes across. Lighthouses, lobster boats, seals, and eagles along the way. It is an attraction in itself.

Dock: Schoodic Marine Center, 88 Sargent St, Winter Harbor 10 min

Season: Memorial Day through late October

Adult round trip: ~$40

Child round trip (0-11): ~$32

Bikes: $5 each way (no e-bikes)

Dogs: Allowed

Book your return trip when you book your departure so you do not get stuck on the other side. The free Island Explorer shuttle meets the ferry in Winter Harbor and takes you around the Schoodic section of the park.

Ferry Departures

From Bar Harbor: 9:00, 11:00, 1:30, 3:30, 5:30*

From Winter Harbor: 10:00, 12:00, 2:30, 4:30, 6:30*

*5:30 and 6:30 trips not available after Labor Day.

Where to Eat and Drink

There is way more food around here than people expect. There is no main strip so you will not stumble into things by accident. This is your cheat sheet. Most peninsula restaurants are seasonal, roughly Memorial Day through Columbus Day. Ellsworth is open year-round. Always check Google or call ahead for hours.

This area changes fast. Restaurants open, close, and change ownership every season. If you notice something on this list that is out of date, send us a message and we will update it. We want this guide to be accurate for every guest.

On the Peninsula — Winter Harbor

J.M. Gerrish Cafe and Ice Cream Parlor 10 min

352 Main St, Winter Harbor. Breakfast and lunch. The lobster roll is outstanding. Blueberry pancakes at breakfast are worth getting up for. Homemade everything. Outdoor porch seating. Shaker Pond ice cream. The Down East Lunch special is legendary: chowder, lobster roll, and blueberry pie. Closes mid-afternoon.

Pickled Wrinkle 10 min

Winter Harbor. A local favorite. Great food and drinks in a relaxed setting.

The Gallery Restaurant and Cocktail Bar 10 min

355 Main St, Winter Harbor. Great cocktails, vegetarian options. Upscale-casual with a creative menu. Small and intimate. Good for a nicer dinner out without a long drive.

Treehouse Seaside Grill 10 min

10 Newman St, Winter Harbor. Tucked away at the point of Henry's Cove just feet from the Schoodic entrance. Ever-changing seasonal menu highlighting local Maine ingredients with hints and twists from around the globe. Local seafood, wine, beer, and cocktails. A nicer dinner spot. Reservations recommended, best to call and ask.

Humble Grumble Food and Spirits 10 min

335 Main St, Winter Harbor. Great cocktails and food in a relaxed setting.

Chase's Restaurant 10 min

193 Main St, Winter Harbor. Classic American comfort food. Burgers, fried seafood, pies. The local diner option. Has been around a long time but hours fluctuate so check before going.

Bunker's Seafood and Spirits 10 min

260 E Schoodic Dr, Birch Harbor. Lunch and dinner, typically Tuesday through Saturday. Right on the water in Bunker's Harbor with deck seating overlooking the boats. Fresh seafood, steaks, craft cocktails. Dog-friendly patio. The spot for a sunset dinner without leaving the peninsula.

Downeaster 10 min

355 Main St, Winter Harbor. Coffee shop and a great stop on the way into the Schoodic park. The breakfast BLT on croissant is excellent.

The Hotdog Cart 10 min

7 Newman St, Winter Harbor. Seasonal hot dog cart. Quick, fun, casual.

Me and Ben's Dairy Creme 10 min

ME-186. Some of the best blueberry ice cream you will ever have. Seasonal.

On the Peninsula — Birch Harbor, Prospect Harbor, Gouldsboro

The Salt Box 8 min

Prospect Harbor. Seasonal eatery focused on local ingredients with a rotating creative menu. Small, worth checking if it is open during your visit.

Downeast Mexican Takeout 6 min

22 Old Rte 1, Gouldsboro. Burritos, tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas. Dine-in or takeout. Outdoor seating. Vegan options. Very close to the house and a great casual meal.

Lobster

Chipman's Wharf 10 min

Live or steamed lobster. About as local as it gets.

The Lobstore 10 min

Live or steamed lobster, another great local option for taking lobster home or eating on the spot.

Tidal Falls Lobster 25 min

Tidal Falls Rd, Hancock. Outdoor lobster pound at a tidal preserve. Eat lobster on picnic tables while watching reversing tidal falls. BYOB. Seasonal and community-run so check before you go. A magical spot when it is open.

Sullivan and Hancock

The Black Sheep 10 min

Sullivan. Fish and chips, happy hour, daily specials. A solid local option on the way to or from Ellsworth.

Tracy's 10 min

Sullivan. Whole belly clams, lobster rolls, blueberry pie, ice cream, burgers. Very casual diner feel with a takeout and burger window or small dine-in. A local staple.

Chipper's 10 min

Route 1. Flame grilled prime steaks and local seafood. Entrees include bread, a sample of haddock chowder, and a side salad. Wide variety of specialty bourbons, fine wines, and cocktails. Expect an hour and a half dining experience. Reservations recommended.

Yu Take Out 15 min

Hancock. Seafood and Korean food. The Korean dishes are very good. Dine-in and takeout.

Ironbound Restaurant and Inn 20 min

1513 US-1, Hancock. Nice dinner spot with a seasonal menu. Reservations recommended. Typically opens mid-May.

Dunbar's Store 18 min

Route 1, Sullivan. Classic Maine general store with a good deli and sandwiches. If you need something quick between here and Ellsworth, this is the stop.

Ellsworth — Restaurants

Ellsworth is about 30 minutes away and has way more restaurants than you would expect from a small Maine town.

Cleonice Mediterranean Bistro 35 min

112 Main St. Creative Mediterranean menu, excellent cocktails. One of the nicest sit-down dinners in the area. Reservations recommended in summer.

Provender Kitchen and Bar 35 min

112 Main St. Hand crafted cocktails and a great dinner menu with incredible food. An upscale option downtown.

Black Moon Public House 35 min

142 Main St. Cocktail bar with great drinks and food in a beautiful space. Great atmosphere.

Finn's Irish Pub 35 min

156 Main St. Pub fare, good beer selection, great food at a great price point.

86 This 35 min

125 Main St. Burritos and fresh food served in a clean, relaxed atmosphere.

Brick House Soups 35 min

27 High St. Uniquely crafted food with wonderful service.

Helen's Restaurant 35 min

55 Downeast Hwy. Classic American food. A well-known local institution with friendly staff.

Legends 35 min

151 High St. American food. Friendly staff, fast service.

Acadia 876 Bar and Grill 35 min

191 Main St. Recently opened bar and grill downtown.

Finelli's 35 min

Ellsworth. Good takeout pizza, subs, and salads.

Josie's Country Store and Cafe 35 min

126 Surry Rd. Country store and cafe.

Ellsworth — Breakfast and Brunch

Riverside Cafe 35 min

151 W Main St. Great brunch and breakfast spot. Amazing food, great service, pleasant atmosphere.

Sylvia's Cafe 35 min

248 State St. Breakfast spot. Great service, plentiful and delicious dishes.

Conscious Cafe 35 min

50 Church St. Fresh food made with locally sourced ingredients.

Ellsworth — International

ThaiConic 35 min

78 Downeast Hwy. Exceptional Thai food, friendly service.

Cilantro Indian Bistro and Bar 35 min

186 High St. Top notch food, service, and atmosphere.

Casa Jalisco 35 min

205 High St. Mexican food. Delicious food and drinks, generous portions.

Shinbashi 35 min

139 High St. Asian cuisine. Very fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented.

Crazy Sumo 35 min

75 High St. Japanese steakhouse. Great atmosphere, great food, fun experience.

Taste Jamaica 35 min

190 State St. Jamaican food. The jerk pork has been called the best around.

Ellsworth — Ice Cream and Sweets

Blueberry Hill Dairy Bar 35 min

Ellsworth. Delicious ice cream with generous portions.

Ellsworth — Specialty Grocery

John Edwards Market 35 min

Main St, downtown. Specialty and natural grocery. Organic produce, excellent wine selection, local products. Upscale Whole Foods vibes but Maine-style.

Bar Harbor

Lompoc Cafe and Brew Pub 60 min

36 Rodick St. Hidden behind the main streets. Eclectic menu from burgers to tofu bahn mi, Atlantic Brewing beers on tap, outdoor beer garden with bocce court. Live music Friday and Saturday nights. Where the locals go. Seasonal.

Side Street Cafe 60 min

49 Rodick St. More casual. Great lobster melt, fish tacos, street corn. Open slightly longer into shoulder season than most.

Reel Pizza Cinerama 60 min

33 Kennebec Pl. Movie theater where you eat pizza on couches while watching a film. Two screens, independent and art house films. Get there early to pick your seat. Extremely charming. Seasonal.

Breweries

Mosquito Harbor Brewing 10 min

Winter Harbor. New brewery right near the park entrance with food, live music, great specials, and happy hours. The closest craft beer and a full meal to the house. Check their current specials during your stay.

Airline Brewing Company 35 min

173 W Main St, Ellsworth. Craft brewery with food. The blackened fish taco special and the Reuben toasty are exceptional.

Fogtown Brewing Company 35 min

25 Pine St, Ellsworth. Interesting food, great environment, terrific staff.

Atlantic Brewing Company 60 min

Knox Rd, Bar Harbor. Estate brewery on a 19th-century farmstead with Mainely Meat BBQ on-site. Free tours. The Midtown location on Cottage St downtown is a modern taproom. Bar Harbor Real Ale is the flagship.

Wineries

Bartlett Estate Winery 15 min

Gouldsboro. Local winery known for blueberry wine and other fruit wines made with Maine-grown ingredients. Worth a visit if you enjoy wine tasting.

Groceries and Supplies

Stock up in Ellsworth on the way in if you are coming from Bangor or points south. The peninsula does not have a full supermarket. A round trip to Ellsworth for groceries is about 70 minutes.

Young's Market 6 min

Gouldsboro. Gas station and basic grocery. Good for forgotten essentials, milk, eggs, bread, snacks, beer and wine.

Bayside Supermarket 20 min

Milbridge. Small grocery store. Better than Young's for a multi-day stock-up.

Hannaford Supermarket 35 min

Ellsworth. Full-service supermarket. This is where locals do their real grocery shopping. Pharmacy, deli, bakery, excellent produce and meat counter.

Walmart Supercenter 35 min

Ellsworth. Open until 11 PM. Grocery section plus everything else. Pickup available.

Things to Do

This area does not have a main strip or a boardwalk. Everything is spread along back roads and small villages. That is what makes it special but it also means you will not stumble into things by accident. This section is your cheat sheet.

Hiking Beyond Acadia

The park trails on Schoodic are covered in the Acadia tab. These are the other spots locals know about.

Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land 30 min

Thousands of acres of public land with crystal-clear lakes, granite mountain summits, and sandy beaches accessible only by trail or boat. Dramatically fewer people than Acadia. This is the hidden gem of the region. Primitive campsites available on the lakeshore for free, accessible by boat or trail.

Schoodic Mountain (at Donnell Pond, not the one in Acadia)

1,069 ft. 1.3 miles to summit. 360-degree views including Frenchman Bay and MDI. Moderate. The hike to do outside of Acadia.

Black Mountain

1,099 ft. Via Big Chief Trail, 1.3 miles, steep with some scrambling near the summit. Spectacular views. Less trafficked than Schoodic Mountain.

Tunk Mountain

1,157 ft. 1.8 mile trail with a hidden ponds spur trail. Moderately challenging.

Caribou Mountain Loop

6+ miles linking Black and Caribou mountains. Full-day backcountry hiking for serious hikers.

Schoodic Beach on Donnell Pond

0.5 mile easy walk from parking to a beautiful sand beach with Schoodic and Black Mountains rising on either side. Swimming, picnicking, free primitive camping. The go-to summer afternoon spot.

Taft Point 10 min

South Gouldsboro. 65-acre preserve jutting into Flanders Bay. Two loop trails. Panoramic views of Frenchman Bay and Acadia mountains. Easy walking. Very close to home and perfect for a quick sunset walk.

Long Ledges Preserve 15 min

Off Punkinville Rd, Sullivan/Gouldsboro area. Short loop trails through rock outcroppings with views to Schoodic Mountain. Managed by Frenchman Bay Conservancy.

Baker Hill Preserve 15 min

Adjacent to Long Ledges. Woodland trails with ledge views. Two loop options, 0.75 and 1 mile.

Down East Sunrise Trail

Multi-use rail trail for biking and walking. Runs through the region and connects to trailheads in the Donnell Pond area. Access points off Route 1.

Swimming

Schoodic Beach on Donnell Pond 30 min

The best swimming hole in the region. Sand beach, clear water, mountains on either side.

Little Tunk Pond 22 min

Off Route 183. Short 0.75 mile walk to a sandy beach with mountain views. Easy, shallow water, good for kids.

Tunk Lake 22 min

Large lake with boat launch off Route 182. Good fishing for salmon, trout, and bass. Swimming. Primitive campsites on the southern shore by boat access.

Frazer Point Picnic Area 14 min

In the park on Schoodic. BBQ grills and shoreline access. Good for families. The ocean water is cold but the brave jump in.

Kayaking and Paddling

You have kayaks at the house for the pond. Beyond that there are great options nearby.

Donnell Pond 30 min

Excellent for kayaking and canoeing. Public boat launch off Route 182 in Franklin. Motors allowed but jet skis prohibited.

Ocean Kayaking

Multiple put-in points along Route 186 and the peninsula. Be cautious with tides, currents, fog, and cold water. Stay close to shore unless experienced and equipped.

Schoodic Maine Guide and Hancock Point Kayak Tours

(207) 266-4449. Guided ocean kayak tours if you want a pro leading the way.

Fishing

Tunk Lake 22 min

Salmon, trout, bass. Boat launch off Route 182.

Jones Pond (at the house)

Pickerel and trout. Kayak out from shore.

Golf

Grindstone Neck Golf Course 12 min

Grindstone Ave, Winter Harbor. 9 holes, historic, seasonal, charmingly old-school. Walking only. Very casual, very local.

Bar Harbor Golf Course 40 min

Route 3, Trenton. 18 holes, par 71, 6,667 yards. Open to the public. Reasonable green fees.

Kebo Valley Golf Club 60 min

Eagle Lake Rd, Bar Harbor. Historic 18-hole course since 1888. 6,131 yards, links-style, surrounded by Acadia. More exclusive but offers public tee times. Call ahead.

Whale Watching and Boat Tours

From Bar Harbor 60 min or ferry

Multiple operators depart from the Bar Harbor pier. 2 to 4 hour trips. Puffin tours, whale watches, lighthouse cruises, sunset sails on the schooner Margaret Todd. Book in advance during peak season. Take the ferry over and walk to the pier.

Lighthouses

Prospect Harbor Lighthouse 8 min

Not open to the public but visible and photogenic from shore.

Winter Harbor Lighthouse (Mark Island)

Visible from the ferry ride and from the Schoodic Loop Road. On an island so not accessible but a beautiful sight. Have cameras ready about 10 to 15 minutes into the ferry ride.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse 75 min

On MDI. The iconic Acadia lighthouse photo. Worth the trip if you are doing a full MDI day.

Movies and Entertainment

The Grand 35 min

165 Main St, Ellsworth. Gorgeous 1938 Art Deco theater. Movies, live theater, concerts, comedy, opera broadcasts. Bob Marley (the Maine comedian, not the reggae legend) does an annual show here. The closest movie theater to the house. Check their schedule at yourgrand.org.

Criterion Theatre 60 min

35 Cottage St, Bar Harbor. Historic theater in downtown Bar Harbor. Films, live music, events. Beautiful venue.

Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park 14 min

Former Navy base, now a research and education campus inside the park. They host public programs, lectures, and events. The Rockefeller Welcome Center has exhibits and information. Ranger programs happen here.

Shopping and Antiques

Winter Harbor 5 and 10 10 min

Downtown Winter Harbor. Old-fashioned five-and-dime. Souvenirs, penny candy, random useful stuff. Charming.

Milbridge Shops 20 min

Milbridge has a vintage clothing, jewelry, and home decor shop worth browsing.

Old Creamery Antique Mall 28 min

Ellsworth area. Multi-dealer antique mall. Good for a browse on a rainy day or if you love treasure hunting.

1A Relics 34 min

Antiques and vintage finds along the Route 1A corridor.

Big Chicken Barn 40 min

Bucksport. Massive antique store in an old poultry barn. Multiple floors of antiques, books, vintage items. Worth the drive if you love antiquing.

L.L.Bean Outlet 35 min

Ellsworth. Outlet store with good deals on outdoor gear, clothing, and home goods.

Unique Experiences

Corea 15 min

A tiny working lobster fishing village at the end of the road. No shops, no restaurants, just lobster boats, traps, and a harbor that looks like a painting. Photographers love this place. Bring a camera.

Wild Blueberry Picking

Late July through August. The barrens around here and especially Cherryfield (the Blueberry Capital of the World, 28 min east) are loaded with wild Maine blueberries. Tiny, intensely flavored, and nothing like grocery store berries.

Stargazing

Low light pollution on Schoodic makes for incredible night skies. The park occasionally hosts stargazing programs. Check the NPS calendar.

Biking the Schoodic Loop

The one-way Schoodic Loop Road plus 8.3 miles of bike paths make this outstanding for cycling. Less car conflict than anywhere on MDI. Bring bikes or rent in Bar Harbor and bring them over on the ferry.

Practical Stuff

Gas

Closest gas is at Young's Market in Gouldsboro, 6 minutes away. More options in Winter Harbor, Sullivan, and Ellsworth.

Pharmacy and Urgent Care

Nearest pharmacy: Hannaford Pharmacy, Ellsworth 35 min

Nearest ER: Maine Coast Memorial Hospital, Ellsworth 35 min

Emergency: 911

Weather and Tides

Schoodic Point is dramatically different at high tide versus low tide. Check NOAA tide charts for Prospect Harbor if you want to time your visit.

Summer mornings are often foggy but it usually burns off by mid-morning. Bring layers. Even in August, ocean-side temperatures can be 15 to 20 degrees cooler than inland.

Ticks

New England ticks are active all season. Do tick checks daily, especially after hiking or time in tall grass. Make sure pets have protection too.

Cell Service

Cell service at the house is good and high-speed WiFi is available. You may lose signal on some back roads and parts of the Schoodic Loop Road.

Ideas for Your Stay

Your First Day

Drive the Schoodic Loop Road. Stop at every pulloff. Spend time at Schoodic Point watching the waves crash on granite. Hike the Anvil Trail to Schoodic Head. Lunch at J.M. Gerrish in Winter Harbor. Sunset walk at Taft Point.

A Bar Harbor Day

Take the 10:00 AM ferry from Winter Harbor. Walk or rent bikes in Bar Harbor. Ride the free Island Explorer shuttle to Park Loop Road, Thunder Hole, and Sand Beach. Lunch on Cottage Street. Return ferry at 4:30 or 6:30 PM. Book ahead.

A Rainy Day

Drive to Ellsworth. Catch a movie at The Grand. Browse Main Street shops. Stock up at Hannaford. Lunch at Cleonice. Or put on rain gear and go to Schoodic Point. The waves on a stormy day are incredible.

For Hikers

Anvil Trail and Schoodic Head in the park. Then Schoodic Mountain at Donnell Pond the next day with a swim at Schoodic Beach on the way down. For a full day challenge, the Caribou and Black Mountain loop at Donnell Pond is 6 miles of backcountry with spectacular views.

With Kids

Schoodic Point for rocks and waves. Alder Trail for an easy walk with butterflies. Schoodic Beach at Donnell Pond for swimming. Ferry to Bar Harbor for ice cream. Frazer Point picnic area has grills and shoreline access.