Preserve expands protection of Hunters Cliffs, Hunters Beach, and Day Mountain area
- Kathryn Strand
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Preserve, in partnership with Maine Coast Heritage Trust (MCHT), has taken an exciting step to permanently protect 168 acres of forest, cliffs, and wetlands in the Hunters Cliffs, Hunters Beach, and Day Mountain area of Seal Harbor. This remarkable stretch of land now joins more than 22,000 acres of connected conservation land on Mount Desert Island.
The property includes towering granite ledges, pocket wetlands, and a perennial stream flowing to Hunters Brook. It also features about 1,800 feet of dramatic shoreline along Hunters Beach, visible from Acadia National Park’s scenic overlooks and the Park Loop Road. The area’s beloved trails — Day Mountain, Hunters Beach, and Hunters Cliffs — connect directly with Acadia, offering visitors sweeping views of the island’s coastline, forests, and mountains.
“This is an incredible moment for the Preserve and for conservation on Mount Desert Island,” said Patrick MacRae, CEO of the Preserve. “The lands at Hunters Cliffs and Day Mountain form a breathtaking backdrop to Acadia National Park and a vital corridor for wildlife and recreation. Working with MCHT ensures they will remain forever undeveloped and accessible to the public.”
When David Rockefeller, Sr. bequeathed the property to the Preserve in 2018, he allowed flexibility to sell it if needed. “With that flexibility came an enormous responsibility,” said MacRae. “We took time to reflect on how best to honor this gift, whether to view it as a financial asset or a conservation opportunity. Ultimately, we chose protection. This decision reaffirms our mission to care for the landscapes entrusted to us.”
The Preserve will continue to own and manage the land, while MCHT will provide long-term oversight to ensure that conservation protections are upheld. The partnership builds on a long history of collaboration between the two organizations, both with roots in the Rockefeller family. The Preserve was founded by David Rockefeller, while MCHT was co-founded by his wife, Peggy Rockefeller. Their shared commitment to conservation continues today at Little Long Pond, which is owned and managed by the Preserve and protected through an easement held by MCHT.
“This project reflects what’s possible when conservation partners bring their complementary strengths to the table,” said Misha Mytar, senior director of land protection at MCHT. “We applaud the Preserve’s decision to further conserve this area’s treasured features and are so pleased to help create lasting benefits that people can enjoy for generations to come.”
Photo by Nikolai Fox