Hancock, Maine

Shorefront village on Frenchman Bay

Overview

Hancock mixes shorefront neighborhoods with wooded backroads toward Franklin and Sullivan. The reversing falls at Tidal Falls Preserve draw picnickers and paddlers, while Route 1 links residents quickly to Ellsworth services or the Schoodic Peninsula.

Key Facts

Population 2,466

Region Downeast & Acadia

County Hancock

Founded 1828

Nearest City Ellsworth (10 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Hancock Is Known For

Hancock Local Highlights

Tidal Falls Preserve

A reversing tidal rapid on the Taunton River with trails and picnic spots.

Frenchman Bay shoreline

Clamming, birding, and views toward Mount Desert Island.

Schoodic Scenic Byway

Route 1 in Hancock begins the drive toward Winter Harbor and Schoodic Point.

Things to Do

Watch the reversing falls

Time your visit at Tidal Falls for the strongest tidal currents.

Paddle the Taunton River

Explore sheltered coves and wildlife-rich salt marshes.

Day trip to Acadia

Reach Bar Harbor or Schoodic within a short drive for hiking and coastline views.

Living in Hancock

Hancock combines coastal access with proximity to Ellsworth jobs, hospitals, and schools. Clamming and seasonal tourism supplement local incomes.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Cool ocean influence, 60-75 F

winter

Cold, 15-35 F with coastal storms

spring

Cool and damp, 40-55 F

fall

Crisp, 45-60 F with bay views

How to Get There

Hancock sits on US-1 between Ellsworth and Sullivan; Route 182 leads inland toward Franklin.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Hancock outline

Outdoor Recreation

Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Birding

Year-round (Peak: May-June for migration)

Paddling

May through October

Related Guides

Fort Knox & The Penobscot Narrows

Explore Maine's massive granite fortress that never fired a shot, and brave the dizzying heights of the world's tallest bridge observatory.

The Ultimate Guide to Maine Wild Blueberries

They are tiny, resilient, and packed with flavor. Discover why Maine's wild blueberries are world-famous, where to rake them, and how to eat them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hancock known for?

Hancock is known for Tidal Falls Preserve, a reversing tidal rapid on the Taunton River with trails and picnic spots. The coastal town offers Frenchman Bay shoreline, clamming flats, and serves as the gateway to the Schoodic Scenic Byway.

How far is Hancock from Ellsworth?

Hancock is about 10 minutes from Ellsworth via US-1. The town sits on Frenchman Bay between Ellsworth's services and the Schoodic Peninsula, with easy day trips to Bar Harbor and Acadia.

What outdoor activities are available in Hancock?

Hancock offers watching the reversing falls at Tidal Falls Preserve timed to tidal currents, paddling the Taunton River's sheltered coves and salt marshes, clamming on the Frenchman Bay shoreline, and birdwatching for coastal species.