Land & Garden Preserve

As spring returns to Mount Desert Island, we’re delighted to share the opening dates for the Preserve’s beloved gardens, each one offering its own seasonal magic. Online reservations on the Preserve's website :  Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden visits: reservations open on March 20   Guided Field Walks and Garden Tours: reservations open on May 6* Asticou Azalea Garden Lantern Stroll: reservations open on May 6* *May 20 for non-members   Photo by Bob Thayer Asticou Azalea Garden  will welcome...

As we head into spring, a friendly reminder that the Preserve’s seasonal dog leash policies go back into effect on May 1, 2026. For the safety of wildlife, visitors, and your pups, all dogs must be kept on leash between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. through September. Policies are in effect year-round at Hunters Cliffs and on the trails around Thuya Garden where dogs must always be leased. Dogs are not permitted on Harbor Brook Trail. Before your next walk, please take a moment to review the full...

Dive into the inner workings of a healthy garden by watching the recording of our February 25 webinar, “Understanding and Managing Pests for Healthy and Resilient Gardens.” Cassie Banning, the Preserve’s Director of Farm & Gardens, shares an inside look at the pests commonly found in our gardens and the thoughtful, sustainable strategies we use to manage them. The presentation is followed by a lively Q&A with members of our gardening team, offering practical insights for gardeners of all...