There's tourism gold in that there Spectacle Island dirt hill

Over the past 300 years, many of the arrivals to Spectacle Island never left: smallpox victims whisked into quarantine, horses doomed to the glue factory, trash bound for the dump.

But two weeks ago, a new breed of visitor began zipping on -- and off -- the island: tourists. Ferries transport passengers from Long Wharf , and visitors with private boats tie up at the island's marina. Guests can hike on the island's 5 miles of gravel trails, swim on life-guarded beaches , and learn about the island's often somber history in the new visitor center. The island's highest point, a 157-foot hill built from dirt excavated from the Big Dig tunnels, offers views of the other harbor islands and the coast.

``The view from the top of the island is probably the most mesmerizing thing about Spectacle," said Tom Powers , president of Island Alliance , a nonprofit group that has helped transform the island from dump to destination.

Meals will soon be available at the visitor center. And boaters hoping to slip into one of the marina's 40 slips -- rates start at $15 a day, with overnight dockage also available -- should call first on VHF Channel 69 to make sure there's space.

Boston Harbor Islands ferries leave from Long Wharf five times each weekday, with an additional trip on weekends and holidays. Direct trips to the island take 15 minutes; boats later in the day stop first at Georges Island , adding an extra 25 minutes. For ferry schedules, see www.bostonislands.org/isle_spectacle.html or call 617-222-6999.

KATHLEEN BURGE