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Owls Head is located on the shores of midcoast Maine; it is a beautiful state park that is home to Owls Head Lighthouse and endless views of Penobscot Bay. It is a scenic place to enjoy a small hike while learning all about the area’s history. Here is everything you need to know.
Owls Head State Park Lighthouse
The Lighthouse is located atop the head of the southern side of the entrance to Rockland Harbor.
The structure, light keeper’s house, and the immediate surrounding grounds remain U.S. Coast Guard property.
Nonetheless, visitors can park at the parking lot, enjoy the picnic grove, and walk to either the small rocky beach with views of Rockland
A small, old cemetery is also located on the state park land.
The Owls Head Lighthouse Hike
The hike to Owls Head Lighthouse is short and sweet, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
It is only 0.5 miles long and will bring you to the lighthouse and back.
The hike starts from the parking area, where you will make your way up the dirt path.
It is a little hilly, but can be done by most hikers. You will be able to enjoy views of the water the entire time.
You may even spot seals along your journey, especially in the summer months, as they do enjoy sunning on the rocks.
Once you see the lighthouse, you will begin your walk along the wooden boardwalk path.
Just make sure to stay on the trail as the Coast Guard uses the buildings nearby, and they do have alarms.
You will then make your way up the high staircase, which will provide a direct view of the lighthouse.
The lighthouse is open to the public from May to October.
During the winter, you can still climb the stairs and walk around the lighthouse, but you cannot go inside.
Enjoy your hike back down as you gaze over the 80-foot bluff overlooking Penobscot Bay.
There are also picnic areas where you can enjoy lunch while marveling at Maine’s coastal forest, sea animals, and water.
When Can You Go Inside Owl’s Head Lighthouse?
You can tour the lighthouse from May through late October. The lighthouse is open six days a week during this time from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The lighthouse is closed on Tuesdays.
You are allowed to explore the grounds from sunrise to sunset any time of the year.
Use caution when climbing the stairs to the lighthouse and then again when climbing the steps inside the tower. Be prepared to climb a seven-wrung ladder to enter the lantern room. Use the hand railing where appropriate.
It is free to tour the lighthouse, but there is a suggested donation of $5.00 per person.
There is a gift shop you can visit on the way out during the season, too!
How To Get Here
It is easy to get to! From US Route 1 in Rockland, at the intersection of Park and Main Streets, turn right onto Route 73 and follow for 1.8 miles.
Turn left onto North Shore Drive and follow the signs 3.4 miles to Owls Head Light State Park.
Once in the parking lot, walk the two-tenths of a mile to the lighthouse.
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