Carter Nature Preserve - Blue Hill Heritage Trust - Surry, ME
Carter Nature Preserve – Dog-Friendly Hiking in Surry, Maine
Located just outside Blue Hill, the Carter Nature Preserve is a hidden gem for those seeking peaceful, pet-friendly trails in Surry, Maine. Known for its scenic diversity, you and your dog can enjoy rocky shorelines, mossy forests, and grassy meadows all in one hike. The trails offer an adventurous route to the ocean cove, with spectacular views and opportunities to spot birds or simply enjoy the tranquility away from busier parks in the area.
This preserve stands out for welcoming pets—it’s explicitly marked as dog-friendly hiking and is also LGBTQ+ friendly and great for families with kids. While there are no off-leash areas or fenced dog runs, leashed dogs are permitted on the trails, making this spot perfect for those who love hiking with their furry friends. Parking is limited, with a small lot available close to the entrance and a few spaces nearer the water. If you’re looking for a peaceful walk with your dog and beautiful scenery, Carter Nature Preserve is a top pick in Hancock County.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at Carter Nature Preserve? Yes, dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced dog area at this preserve.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is limited but available; there are about 6-7 spots near the hill entrance and 2-3 spots closer to the water access.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve features loopable hiking trails with access to the ocean cove and diverse terrain.
- Is this area good for kids? Yes, Carter Nature Preserve has kid-friendly hikes and is suitable for families.
- Is this area LGBTQ+ friendly? Yes, the preserve is LGBTQ+ and transgender safespace friendly.
Reviews
One of my favorite places in all of Maine. A wonderful little spot that seems like a well kept secret. Close to the Blue Hill coop for a nice little treat afterwards. You can kayak/SUP in, of course be mindful of the tide. Or you can take the beach or the woods trail. Lots of great options to get to the magical cove.
We chose the wrong time to visit. Some sections of path were like sheets of ice. Reminded me of FROZEN. But the ocean scenery was beautiful. The trail could have been marked better. It would be nice summer hike!
After crowded Acadia, it is a piece of paradise. Very small parking lot hidden on ocean side of the road.
Great little trail along the bay and into the forest! Took my daughter and I about 40 minutes to do the loop and we wandered a little bit along the shoreline. I really enjoy the diversity over such a short distance, rocky shoreline, muddy cove, grassy meadow, and thick, mossy forest. This trail is not quite a loop, however if you take the road back, which is not too busy, it is definitely “loop-able.” Sadly no dogs are allowed on the trail. There is about 6 or 7 parking spots up on the hill and only about 2 or 3 down near the water entrance. In October, parking was not an issue.
Lovely hike to the ocean. The real adventure began when traversing across the nearly high tide beach to complete the trail. Lots of diversity in terrain here.