September 25, 2023 – Rockland, Maine
Issue: Straightforward
Size: Roughly 2 miles
Parking: Samoset Rd, Rockland, ME 04841
Parking is offered at close to the tip of Samoset Rd.
Grounds are open dawn to sundown. Lighthouse excursions are volunteer dependent, please go to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse Facebook web page for any bulletins. All excursions are climate allowing.
Overview:
The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse sits on the finish of a 7/8-mile granite breakwater that stretches 4,346 ft into Rockland Harbor. It’s an lively U.S. Coast Guard assist to navigation. The property is owned by the Metropolis of Rockland and managed by Pals of Rockland Harbor Lights, a chapter of the American Lighthouse Basis.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
A favourite vacation spot for locals, it has additionally been a preferred vacationer attraction for years. The Rockland Breakwater and Lighthouse is an effective alternative for an fascinating stroll whereas offering a special sort of out of doors expertise. The breakwater is slightly below a mile lengthy and is an attractive and scenic stroll on sunny days. Throughout dangerous climate, waves typically crash over the granite breakwater which might make the stroll a really moist one and presumably hazardous. Alongside the best way, there are beautiful views of Rockland, Rockland Harbor and Penobscot Bay.
Wanting northwest – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Wanting northeast – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Historical past:
A breakwater is a barrier that’s constructed out right into a physique of water to assist “break the water,” defending a coast or harbor from robust waves. The Rockland Breakwater was constructed between 1881 and 1899 by the USA Military Corps of Engineers. Virtually a mile lengthy, it was constructed to assist defend Rockland Harbor. The Bodwell Granite Firm used round 700,000 tons of granite for the venture, which value greater than three quarters of 1,000,000 {dollars}. It was listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations in 2003.
The Rockland Breakwater is a 4,346 lengthy granite construction that stretches throughout the mouth of the broad Rockland Harbor south from Jameson Level. At its southern terminus the breakwater helps the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse.
Since its completion, the Rockland Breakwater has drawn the eye of holiday makers and native residents alike. All through its historical past it has been a preferred spot for strolling, boating, fishing, swimming and picnicking. Though designed to make sure the protection of the vessels and companies that relied on Rockland Harbor it has turn into a neighborhood landmark and useful resource.
- Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse~
The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse was established in 1902, about two years after completion of the breakwater. The advanced consists of the lighthouse itself, a fog-signal constructing, and a Keeper’s home, all constructed on an oblong platform of dressed granite. All of those parts are connected to one another, and the lighthouse tower rises from the roof of the fog sign constructing. In 1964 the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse was automated by the Coast Guard. The Lighthouse was listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations on March 20, 1981.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
As we speak, the Rockland Breakwater and its historic lighthouse that stands sentinel on the south finish of the granite construction are well-known and beloved icons of Midcoast Maine. The breakwater continues to function a harbor of refuge alongside Penobscot Bay, with 1000’s of individuals strolling the practically mile-long stretch every year. This pleasurable stroll permits guests to admire panoramic seascapes, historic schooners, and marine life earlier than reaching the tip of their vacation spot on the lighthouse.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Visiting Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse:
There are roughly 35 or so parking spots alongside Samoset Highway. Park within the pull-offs on the left-side of the street in entrance of the golf course. As soon as on foot, stroll down Samoset Highway to the place it ends and the Breakwater Path begins. This path alongside the seaside takes you to the start of the Rockland Breakwater.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse Parking
When strolling the breakwater to the Lighthouse, it is very important preserve a number of issues in thoughts. As you set out on this scenic stroll, deal with it such as you would a hike by the woods.
- There is no such thing as a working water on the lighthouse, which suggests no bogs. This additionally implies that it’s essential to deliver water for your self similar to another hike.
- This stroll is about 2 miles spherical journey.
- You’ll need acceptable footwear with good gripping soles.
- Granite can turn into very slick when it will get moist, so concentrate.
- There are additionally some gaps between the blocks that may journey you up if you’re not paying consideration.
- Lastly, it’s best to at all times gown for cooler climate as a result of there may be at all times a cool breeze on the breakwater. There may be additionally a noticeable lower in temperature as you method the lighthouse as a result of it’s practically a mile out into the bay.
There’s a small park close to the start of the breakwater, the Marie H. Reed Breakwater Park. The lighthouse can also be a part of the 5.5-mile Rockland Harbor Path that additionally takes hikers by the town and a few of its open areas.
As soon as you might be able to go, stroll down in direction of the water and switch left on the Breakwater Path. This quick grime path connects Samoset Highway to the Rockland Breakwater.
Breakwater Path – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Breakwater Path – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Breakwater Path – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Breakwater Path – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Breakwater Path – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Proceed forward on the breakwater and head in direction of the lighthouse. Please watch your step to maintain from tripping or slipping (whether it is moist).
Rockland Breakwater
Rockland Breakwater
You in all probability received’t be alone whereas strolling the breakwater, particularly if it’s a pleasant day.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
The most effective views for photographing the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse are from the water itself. If you do not need to journey on any of the boats and schooners that frequent the harbor, there are each day ferries from Rockland to Vinalhaven and to North Haven that move shut by. The ferries run hourly throughout the day from the Maine State ferry terminal situated in Rockland Harbor close by. The picture under was taken from the floating dock which was added in 2003.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
On the base of the flagpole.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Carved into the granite on the finish of the breakwater: “BRW – 4347 FEET LONG.” Information have the Rockland Breakwater listed at 4,346 ft lengthy.
Rockland Breakwater
View southeast from the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse.
Rockland Breakwater
The steps are on the precise facet and can be utilized to stroll across the lighthouse.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Wanting south.
Wanting south – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Wanting north.
Wanting north – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Wanting north – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
It’s possible you’ll need to take a break right here to loosen up and benefit from the views.
Wanting northwest – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
A glance again the best way you got here.
Wanting north – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Wanting northeast – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Wanting north – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
The floating dock and boat ramp which was added in 2003, is one of the best spot to {photograph} the lighthouse. Simply watch your step in case you determine to stroll on it, particularly if the water is somewhat tough.
Wanting northwest – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
View over Penobscot Bay and the majestic hills rising past.
Wanting northeast – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
Rockland Breakwater
Rockland Harbor
If you end up able to return to the mainland, retrace your steps alongside the breakwater, and again to the parking space, the place the hike started.
Rockland Breakwater
Evaluation:
A really cool expertise that was fairly pleasurable. I’d positively advocate visiting this historic breakwater and lighthouse if you’re ready.
Professionals:
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, Rockland Breakwater, panoramic views, scenic seascape.
Cons:
Can get crowded throughout heat climate.
Sources: