Tidepooling at Wonderland

Take the flat, easy Wonderland Trail through a coastal forest with minimal roots and rocks before reaching the coastline. There is a rocky tidepooling area at the end of the trail. Keep an eye out for bountiful barnacles and a variety of marine snails alongside the long spaghetti-like rockweed algae. Camouflaged crabs and soft green sponges can be spotted as well through patient observation.

• Distance: 1.4 miles round trip
• Terrain: area along coastline is uneven and slippery, especially on the black rocks and seaweed.

View Tidepooling at Wonderland photos to explore this activity virtually.

Details

Activity

Wildlife Watching

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. It is not recommended for pets to be at or around tidepools.

Activity Fee

No

Although this activity is free, a park entrance pass is required for all areas of the park from May 1 through October 31.

Location

Wonderland Trail

• Where to Begin

  • Wonderland Trailhead is located off the trailhead parking lot on Maine Route 102A (Seawall Road).

• Getting to the Trailhead

  • By car: Start in Southwest Harbor and continue south on Maine Route 102. Turn left onto Maine Route 102A. In 3.1 miles the Wonderland Parking Lot is on the left. Maine Route 102A (Seawall Road) can close during storms or possible flooding. Check alerts for road closures. The parking area is very small. Park in designated spots only.

  • By bus: There is no public transportation to this trailhead.

Note: There is no bathroom available at the trailhead.

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

Tidepooling at Wonderland is not accessible. The trail has uneven footing in areas and the coastline is rocky, uneven, and slippery.

There is no bathroom available at the trailhead.

Know When to Go

This rocky tidepooling area is exposed at low tide. The opportunity to tidepool occurs between the window of time 1.5 hours before to 1.5 hours after low tide. It is best to start tidepooling before low tide and to leave as the tide is rising.

Before you head out to the intertidal zone on your own, check the tide chart for Wonderland.

Safety and Etiquette

• Before exploring, wash off sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and bug spray.
• Do not wade into the tidepools.
• We are guests in these animals’ homes. Use a light step!
• Leave the park as you found it. Never use force to remove anything.

Slow is the Way to Go

Step carefully and slowly. Seaweed is slippery, and rocks can be wet, loose, and/or sharp.

Protect Your Feet

Wear closed-toed sturdy outdoor shoes.

Eyes on the Sea

Keep a safe distance from the sea, and watch those waves.

Kids Stay Close

Small children should stay within arm’s reach of adults.

"Sea" a Whole New World

Get low, look closely and carefully, and have patience!