Spectacle Island Perimeter Trail
An unpaved perimeter circuit around Spectacle Island with harbor views and a ferry required at both ends of the outing.
- Distance
- 1.5 mi · Loop
- Time
- 30 min
- Surface
- Wide crushed-gravel perimeter trail
- Grade / hills
- No elevation gain; cross-slope not quantified
Start
Spectacle Island Visitor Center
Directions
Route
- Begin at the Spectacle Island Visitor Center after arriving by ferry or private boat.
- Follow the signed unpaved Perimeter Trail around the island, remaining on the main circuit where interior paths climb or branch.
- Complete the loop at the visitor center with enough time for the scheduled return ferry.
Good to know
NPS currently publishes a 1.5-mile perimeter loop with no elevation gain, crushed-gravel substrate, wide low-gradient trails, and an accessibility classification. This supersedes the retired DCR guide's 1.7-mile figure. Ferry travel, waits, and capacity are not included in the walking time; schedules, weather, limited shade, and island services need current checks.