Discover Ogunquit, Maine’s Bunny Clark Preserve for a hiking experience that balances challenge and scenic reward. Perfect for active explorers, this guide covers everything from trail logistics to timing your visit right for maximum enjoyment.
Adventure Tips
Hydration is Key
Even with shaded forest sections, the physical effort and coastal air can dehydrate you quickly. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails include rocky patches and uneven dirt surfaces. Use trail runners or hiking boots with solid grip for safety and comfort.
Start Early or Late
Avoid midday sun and crowds by planning hikes in cooler morning or late afternoon hours, improving your trail experience and photos.
Respect Wetlands
Sections near wetlands can become muddy; stick to trails to protect this delicate ecosystem and avoid damage or slips.
Planning a Trip to Ogunquit, Maine? Don’t Miss Bunny Clark for Outdoor Activities
Ogunquit, Maine, offers more than just charming coastal views; it’s a gateway to diverse outdoor activities anchored around Bunny Clark Preserve—a local treasure for anyone seeking active immersion in nature. Covering roughly 260 acres, this preserve challenges hikers and outdoor enthusiasts with its well-marked trails that balance accessibility with a hint of rugged engagement. Expect forested paths where pine needles cushion your steps and winds that whistle through the pines, daring you to keep pace.
Bunny Clark isn’t a steep climb but offers a practical workout: the main loop stretches about 3.7 miles with an elevation gain nearing 400 feet. The terrain varies from soft dirt underfoot to occasional rocky patches, demanding sturdy footwear but nothing specialized. This dynamic trail exchanges dense woodland shades for sweeping views over the nearby ocean, as the coastline presses forward like a restless force meeting the land.
Timing your hike early in the morning or late afternoon lets you capture the preserve’s moods—the sun filters through trees, spotlighting wildflowers or the occasional shy deer moving through the brush. To stay ahead of nature’s rhythm, bring ample water, as the trail, while shaded, has few spots for refills. Lightweight layers work best here; the ocean breeze can shift from warm to cool without warning.
For those interested in more than hiking, the preserve includes spots ideal for birding, with ospreys and bald eagles soaring above and small woodpeckers flitting nearby. The environment commands respect: trails wind past wetlands that act like natural sponges after rain, encouraging an awareness of your footprint.
Practical advice? Choose sturdy, waterproof footwear to handle unpredictable terrain, and pack a compact daypack with essentials: water, snacks, a map, and a first aid kit. Avoid peak midday heat in summer by scheduling your activity in the cooler hours. On site, parking is limited but sufficient, and local signage helps navigate without issue.
Beyond Bunny Clark’s boundaries, Ogunquit delivers a full outdoor experience—from kayaking in tidal coves to cycling historic backroads. But it’s the preserve that quietly invites you to move deeply with the land, testing endurance and curiosity alike. When you prepare right, the adventure is both invigorating and accessible, with nothing lost to excess and everything gained in connection.
Nearby Trips
Adventures near Wells
Discover the unique and memorable adventures that make Wells special.
No landmarks available
We're still collecting detailed landmark information for Wells. Check back soon for updates!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on Bunny Clark trails?
Yes, dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times to protect local wildlife and other visitors.
Is there a fee to enter Bunny Clark Preserve?
No fees are required. The preserve is open year-round for public use, supported by local conservation efforts.
Are the trails wheelchair accessible?
Most trails at Bunny Clark have uneven terrain and some elevation changes, which currently makes them unsuitable for wheelchairs.
Where can I find maps or guides for the trails?
Trail maps are available online through local conservation groups and at key trailheads in printed form.
What wildlife might I encounter?
Deer, ospreys, bald eagles, and numerous smaller birds are common. Early morning is best for spotting active wildlife.
Is cell phone reception reliable in the preserve?
Reception can be spotty, especially in dense forested areas, so prepare accordingly for navigation and emergencies.
Recommended Gear
Hiking Boots
Protect your feet on rocky and variable terrain with sturdy, broken-in boots.
Water Bottle or Hydration Pack
Essential for maintaining hydration on moderately strenuous trails.
Light Layered Clothing
Spring weather swings demand layers you can add or remove easily.
Bug Spray
Keep biting insects at bay during warmer months when bugs are most active.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "Look for the rarely visited rocky outcrop offering panoramic views east toward the Atlantic, just past the main loop."
- "A quiet wetland area along the southern trail is a hotspot for dragonflies during late summer."
Wildlife
- "Keep an eye out for barred owls after dusk, their distinctive calls add character to the woods."
- "Ospreys nest near the preserve’s coastal edges and can often be seen fishing from above."
History
"Bunny Clark Preserve was established through community efforts focused on protecting Ogunquit’s natural landscape from development, preserving both environmental quality and public access."