Tibbett Island photo courtesy Downeast Coastal Conservancy
At the southern tip of Addison, 600 feet off the coast of Moose Neck is Tibbett Island, a gorgeous 23-acre public preserve. The island has two parts: three quarters of the northern section of the island is covered in a forested area, largely dominated by white spruce, and the last quarter is open, non-forested space. The northeastern section of the island has a variety of plants—green alder, balsam fir—with the island’s open spaces containing the most biodiversity: goldenrod, lowbush blueberry, dewberry, gooseberry, and New York aster. Tibbett Island is also home to two uncommon species: seaside bluebells form mats along the shore, and arctic blue flag (also known as beachhead iris) can be found on the south shore.
The island is about one mile in diameter and circumference, making it ideal for walking on its rocky shore. Visitors can access it through a small public beach owned by the town of Addison, and the short distance between the island and surrounding land allows small kayaks and skiffs to make it across the channel. There’s also a cross-island hiking trail that runs ¼ mile.
Please practice “Leave No Trace” ethics and only visit the island during daylight hours.
Camping, fires, balsam fir tipping, and rockweed harvesting are not permitted. Dogs are also not allowed, and please do not feed or disturb the wildlife. Feel free to pick berries by hand when applicable. The island is open during daylight hours only, and visitors do so at their own risk.
Closest Town: Addison, Washington County
Activities: Kayaking, Canoeing, Birding, Boating (small boats only), Walking, Hiking, Picnicking, Berry picking, Wildlife Watching
Region: Downeast
Acreage: 25
Directions:
From points East on Route 1: Turn south onto Route 187/Indian River Road at Wild Blueberry Land. In 2 miles, turn right on Wescogus. Road. Continue 1.5 miles and turn left on East Side Road. Follow East Side Road about 6 miles and turn right onto Mooseneck Road. Continue on Mooseneck Road for 2.3 miles and turn left onto Narrows Road and park at the end of the road.
From points West: Take Route 1 to Columbia and turn right onto Addison Road. Continue onto Water Street through the town over the Addison Bridge. Follow the East Side Road for 6 miles and turn right onto Mooseneck Road. Continue on Mooseneck Road for 2.3 miles and turn left onto Narrows Road and park at the end of the road.
