Isle au Haut, French for “high island” and locally pronounced “i-la-HO,” lies in eastern Penobscot Bay, seven miles south of Deer Isle. Approximately six miles long and two miles wide, over half of Isle au Haut’s land mass is part of Acadia National Park. There is considerable day-tripping traffic into the park, which offers 18 miles of hiking trails. A long-standing summer colony on the northern end of the island accounts for the bulk of the increase in summer population. The primary industry on the island is lobstering, although many households also gain income through carpentry and caretaking.
Quick Facts
- Year-round population, 2010 U.S. Census: 73
- Summer population estimate: 300
- Acres: 8,073
- Mainland ferry terminal: Stonington
- Estimated distance between mainland and island ferry docks: 7.5 miles
- Ferry service: Isle au Haut Boat Services
- School: K–8 one room school house, commute off-island for high school
- Form of town government: Independent town