📍 Location & Geography
Winter Harbor is a charming small town located in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It is situated on the southeastern part of the Schoodic Peninsula. The town covers a total area of 69.44 square miles, of which 14.73 square miles is land and 54.71 square miles is water. Winter Harbor is known for its picturesque coastal landscapes, including rocky shores and dense forests.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Winter Harbor are 44°23′35″N latitude and 68°5′13″W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Winter Harbor is part of the New England region, specifically located in the Downeast area of Maine. It is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and east, and borders Gouldsboro to the west and north. The town is part of the 04693 ZIP code area.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Winter Harbor has a population of approximately 516 people. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 53.4 years. The majority of the population is Caucasian, with small percentages of other races. The gender distribution is fairly even, with slightly more women than men.
🏛️ History
Winter Harbor was originally part of Gouldsboro before it was incorporated as a town in 1895. The town was named for its harbor, which is free of ice in the winter, a rare occurrence in this part of Maine. Winter Harbor was once a bustling fishing and shipping port. The town saw a decline in these industries in the 20th century but has since evolved into a beloved tourist destination.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Winter Harbor is home to a portion of Acadia National Park, known as the Schoodic Peninsula. This area offers stunning views of Mount Desert Island and features miles of hiking and biking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas. The town is also known for its abundant wildlife, including various bird species, deer, and marine life.
🏫 Education
Education in Winter Harbor is managed by the RSU 24 school district. The town has one elementary school, Winter Harbor School, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend Sumner Memorial High School in nearby Sullivan.
🚧 Transportation
Winter Harbor is accessible by Maine State Route 186. The closest major airport is Bangor International Airport, approximately 50 miles away. The town also has a marina for boating and is a stop on the Downeast Transportation’s bus route, which offers service to other towns in the region.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every August, Winter Harbor hosts the annual Schoodic Arts Festival, a two-week celebration of music, theater, and art. The town is also home to the Winter Harbor Lobster Festival, which features a lobster dinner, parade, and various games. A lesser-known fact about Winter Harbor is that it was used as a filming location for the 1999 movie “The Cider House Rules.”