Volunteer Alan Bellows (left) and lands manager Michael Warren remove trees in preparation for expanding the parking area at Ovens Mouth West.
Ovens Mouth is one of the region’s most spectacular natural sites. Bordered on the north by Edgecomb and on the south by Boothbay, Ovens Mouth encompasses the narrow passage leading from the Sheepscot and Back rivers to the extensive Cross River tidal basin.
Boothbay Region Land Trust’s preserve at Ovens Mouth, which extends across two peninsulas along Back River and protects 163 acres of forested land and shoreline, is a favorite destination of locals and visitors to the region alike. The preserve represents one of Boothbay Region Land Trust’s most extensive trail systems, with approximately five miles of hiking trails, and is consistently highlighted as a top recreational destination on the peninsula. Given this, it is no surprise that on any given weekend in summer, the parking lot stays busy from morning until night.
In response to the popularity of this destination, Boothbay Region Land Trust is happy to announce that this spring the parking area at Ovens Mouth West will be getting a much-needed facelift to expand the lot and more than double its current capacity.
With two distinct entrances to the preserve, off of Dover Cross Road on the west side and Dover Road on the east, the public has multiple points of access to enjoy the trails at Ovens Mouth. However, given the limited parking on the west side, it can be particularly difficult to find a spot during the summer months. Currently, Ovens Mouth West contains enough parking for just 2 or 3 cars. On busy weekends, it is not uncommon to see visitors parking along the roadside, where parking is both dangerous and restricted, creating a safety issue that we hope additional parking will eliminate.
Visitors to the preserve might notice that work is already underway, with some tree removal in the region surrounding the information kiosk. The overall project will require minimal tree removal and relocating the kiosk to be closer to the trailhead. In the coming weeks, equipment will be brought in to remove tree stumps and complete the expanded parking area. We hope that this will provide greater and safer access for the public to enjoy this beautiful preserve.
We also ask for patience during the construction period, as it may temporarily limit parking on certain work days. Ovens Mouth East parking will remain open and accessible throughout this time.
