Mystic Seafarer’s Trail by Lisa Saunders

A historical–and sometimes hysterical–journey to the “7 Wonders of Mystic” and beyond.

When most people think of the quaint seacoast village of Mystic, they think of the movie, “Mystic Pizza.” Yet when they visit this maritime community, they find a lot more than pizza! National Geographic named Mystic one of the top 100 adventure towns in the United States.

Want to embark on your own adventure in the greater Mystic area? Then follow the path featured in the adventure guide Mystic Seafarer’s Trail by local author Lisa Saunders.  Within its pages  you’ll uncover little-known facts behind  the “7 Wonders of Mystic,” Amelia Earhart’s secret wedding location, the sea captain who accidentally discovered Antarctica and several tragic shipwrecks off Watch Hill, R.I. You will also learn hidden stories behind Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium, which houses the “Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below” exhibit. Read eye-witness accounts from residents about what it was like when Julia Roberts came to town to star in “Mystic Pizza.” Other locals you’ll meet include an old fisherman whose cousin is listed among those lost at sea on Stonington’s Fishermen’s Memorial and Ernie the Ledge Light Ghost.

The book also includes information about how to kayak under the drawbridge to pick up an ice cream order and where to paddle to the partially submerged schooner Marmion. Valuable tips include what NOT to wear for seal watching in the winter, where to thaw out afterwards, and how to picnic “Mystic Style” for excursions on historic vessels in warmer months. Learn about Mystic’s free bike sharing program.

Lisa Saunders discusses Mystic Seafarer’s Trail on WTNH News 8

About the author: While searching for the Seven Wonders of Mystic with her beagle/basset hound, author Lisa Saunders uncovers the secrets behind the Titanic’s shoes, Amelia Earhart’s Noank wedding and Captain Sisson’s hunt for gold. But will she ever find an adventure of her own—one that will make her thin and famous? Then it happens: when walking the Mystic Seafarer’s Trail (which she designed for those who don’t like to go uphill), she meets a blind sailor who invites her on a long winter voyage. Can this landlubber defy squalls, scurvy, and her fear of scraping barnacles to survive this epic journey?

Mystic Seafarer’s Trail can be purchased online, through the author and at these locations.

Also see Mystic Seafarer’s Trail: Self-Guided Tour Map