Environment of Lubec, Maine

For added peace of mind, a personal locator beacon is a useful tool for anyone exploring remote areas, whether hiking, kayaking, or navigating rugged terrain.

DANGER: Be extra vigilant, particularly with children and non-swimmers, anywhere near the Lubec Working Waterfront and on the piers.

The Lubec Narrows current can reach speeds of up to seven miles per hour. If a person falls in, they will be swept away by the current, both along the waterfront on Johnson Street and Water Street. The water is very cold, and any non-swimmer who sinks beneath the water will be carried rapidly away from the site of submersion, making recovery extremely difficult.

DANGER: Do not stray onto the Lubec clam flats during an incoming tide or at any time of low visibility (fog, mist, snow, or darkness). If you become lost or if the tide comes in while you are still on the mudflats, you could be trapped on a small rise and swept away before anyone even knows you are out there. This has happened too often, even to the most experienced clammers.

Do not drive your vehicle onto the clam flats. It could become stuck and fully submerged before rescue is possible.

DANGER: The above risks exist along nearly one hundred miles of coastline in Lubec.

All boaters—whether sailing, powering, or paddling—should check current water conditions with NOAA and always be prepared for cold water immersion. The Labrador Current keeps the Gulf of Maine at a consistently cold temperature.

With tidal ranges reaching up to 24 feet, strong currents can rapidly submerge beach areas and hinder movement across sandbars. Hikers, paddlers, and other park visitors should exercise caution.

Typically, South Bay lags about 20 minutes behind Lubec tides, while Straight Bay can be up to a 60-minute delay behind Lubec tides. Check the current Lubec tide chart at USHarbors.com.

Visit the National Weather Service website for the recreational forecast for Northern and Eastern Maine, issued by the Caribou, Maine office.

Rapid weather shifts, including dense fog caused by cold ocean water meeting warm air, can occur unexpectedly.

Even brief exposure to the ocean's cold water temperatures can rapidly cause hypothermia.

Paddling is undertaken at your own risk.

Many trails run along high, steeply sloped cliffs with loose rocks that can shift, increasing the risk of hikers losing their balance and falling a considerable distance.

Glacial activity and shallow soils have exposed roots and rocks along many trails. Uneven and slippery terrain can cause tripping and falls, leading to injuries.

Cellular service may be inconsistent at various Cobscook Shore Parklands locations.

Campobello Island and surrounding Canadian areas follow Atlantic Time, which is one hour ahead of Eastern Time. Electronic devices may automatically adjust to Atlantic Time, even if you're in Maine.