The Sanctuary property is accessible through a series of low impact trails designed to highlight a variety of habitats surrounding Somes Pond. Public trails are open from dawn to dusk seven days a week. Trail access is available at three locations: 1) Pretty Marsh Road Headquarters parking area, 2) the Somesville Firehouse, and 3) alongside the Oak Hill Road just west of the public access landing. Dogs are prohibited from all Sanctuary trails for the sake of wildlife.
There are several parking spaces on the right side of the HQ parking area marked by white lines at the top of the short driveway. Picnic tables are available for use during daylight hours (please take any food and related with you when you leave). Parking alongside Pretty Marsh Road below the driveway is possible as well, but be aware of roadside safety of course. There are trailheads by the steps alongside the lower headquarters building on the east side, and the south end of the parking area. Access is also possible from the trailhead at the south end of the Somesville fire station parking lot, closest to Pretty Marsh Rd.
The Sanctuary’s Headquarters building overlooking Somes Pond serves as the base of operations and visitor services which include exhibits and information related to the Sanctuary’s projects. Please visit the Headquarters building at 57 Pretty Marsh Road for more detailed visitor information. We are often away from HQ working on various projects so if no one is present feel free to call Director Billy Helprin to arrange a visit or learn more (207) 244-4027.
FAQs and Rules
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 top of the parking area at the Sanctuary’s Headquarters is maintained throughout the winter months. During winter thaws, the driveway may be closed to protect it and the parking area from damage, but parking below the driveway is possible.
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