Peaks Island Loop Description:
Peaks Island , a residential island off the coast of Portland , offers spectacular views of Casco Bay , the Atlantic Ocean , coastal towns, and neighboring islands. A scenic 20-minute ferry ride to the island from Portland is half the fun. Maps of the island are available at Hannigan's Market, near the ferry dock at Jones Wharf.

The perimeter road is paved and mostly flat, approximately half waterfront, half residential. Many benches along the waterfront offer scenic views of the Bay. Traffic is minimal and slow-moving, but pedestrians should be careful. To access the loop, walk up the hill from the dock 0.1 mile to the first intersection. Turn right onto Island Avenue and go 0.2 miles to the 2nd right onto Whitehead Street (unmarked). Go 0.25 miles to 2nd right onto Seashore Avenue (marked). Follow Seashore to its end. Turn left onto Trefethen Avenue where you will go 0.1 mile down a steep hill. Turn left onto Island Avenue to return to the ferry.

Points of Interest:

• From the ferry you can observe several lighthouses: Bug Light, Spring Point Light, Portland Head Light as well as Fort Gorges
• On Peaks Island are several World War II-era concrete bunkers and lookouts
• A bike shop (offering rentals) and other shops are available on the Island

Trail access:
The ferry is available year-round from the Casco Bay Lines terminal at the east end of Commercial Street in Portland .

South Portland Bus routes:
1, 3 and 4.