Q: Can I walk my dog along the Sanctuary’s trails?
Pets are prohibited from all of the Sanctuary’s trails. Even the friendliest of dogs can inadvertently frighten nesting wildlife or other visitors who are out for a quiet walk.
Q: May I swim from Sanctuary trails?
Swimming from Sanctuary trails is prohibited. The best place to access Somes Pond for swimming is from the public access landing along the Oak Hill Road in Somesville. Since this public access land is on private property the owner asks that you respect the rules that are posted at the site so that everyone may continue to use this site.
Q: Do I need a reservation to attend a Sanctuary education program?
Space is limited for both our indoor and outdoor programs and reservations are required for all Sanctuary education programs. If you make a reservation and then later decide not to attend, please call the Sanctuary so that we may offer your spot to another person.
Q: What are the Sanctuary’s hours of operations?
All Sanctuary trails are open to the public from dawn until dusk. The Headquarters building on Somes Pond and the adjoining observation deck are open during public programs or whenever staff is present (due to the seasonal nature of the Sanctuary’s conservation projects staff cannot maintain regular building hours).
Q: Is the Sanctuary open all year?
The Sanctuary’s trails are open for public access all year long. The parking area at the Sanctuary’s Headquarters is maintained throughout the winter months.
Q: How is the Sanctuary funded?
The Somes-Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary is a private, non-profit organization that relies on a combination of sources for its funding, including grants and private donations. We are not funded by municipal or government support.
Q: Can I bring my group?
Groups larger than six people in size must contact the Sanctuary by phone or in writing at least three days prior to their visit. Due to parking restrictions and impact on trails group use may be limited depending on size and the time of visit.
Q: If I find an injured wild animal can I bring it to the Sanctuary?
The Sanctuary does not keep or rehabilitate wildlife. Anyone finding a local injured wild animal should contact Acadia Wildlife Foundation at 207-288-4960.
Q: What are the rules to observe while visiting the Sanctuary?
The following are not permitted:
- Fires or the collecting of fire wood
- Pets
- Smoking
- Alcoholic beverages
- Swimming from Sanctuary’s trails
- Trash disposal (please carry out what you carried in)
- Removing or disturbing plants or animals
- Bicycles or any motorized vehicles on trails