Local Wonders

Local Natural Wonders - Day 35 - Wilbur Preserve in Phippsburg Maine

 This 10 acre preserve at the end of Cox’s Head road includes lovely woods and a stunning view from the summit. A 1/4 mile trail winds past a spring fed pond two thirds of the way to the summit which once provided water to the adjacent homes, and a Revolutionary War garrison on the summit.  Your easy ascent begins amongst a wild Apple Orchard. The view from the summit includes all of Atkins Bay, the western coasts of Gerogetow…

Local Natural Wonders Day 34 - Frenchman’s Hole in Bethel, Maine

This beautiful spot in Bethel with high rocky ledges and deep clear water is perfect for a dip on a hot day in the cool water. There are spots to jump off the rocky cliffs into the water, or simply enjoy a picnic and the view. The shallower upper pool is great for kids.

From Wild Swimming New England: Fairly secluded spot in beautiful Bethel, Maine near Sunday River where the river coming off the mountain has made an astonishing …

Local Natural Wonders - Day 33 - Mt. Agumenticus in Cape Neddick, Maine

From the Mt. Agamenicus Conservation Region website:
The Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region consists of more than 10,000 acres and is located within an additional 30,000 acre expanse of conservation land in southern Maine.  This land is comprised of a rich and unique coastal forest that supports the highest diversity of animal and plant species in all of Maine.  The mountain and the surrounding area provide residents with…

Local Natural Wonders Day 31 - Lilly Pond Forest in Bath, Maine

Part of the Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT), Lilly Pond Community Forest has three miles of trails for hiking and biking. This preserve protects 900 feet of Lilly Pond frontage and includes shaded rocky forest, wetland forest and open wetlands. The beginning of the trails includes a steeper incline with steps leading from High Street and trails are considered mostly intermediate.

Directions from KELT:

Take High Street south an…

Local Natural Wonders Day 31 - Maquoit Bay Conservation Land in Brunswick, Maine

Maquoit Bay Conservation Land is a 124-acre preserve owned by the Town of Brunswick and protected through conservation easement with the Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust (BTLT). This land is comprised mostly of woodlands and some salt marshes. It has a mile-long looped trail for walking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing along an old woods road, as well as gorgeous views of Maquoit Bay on the Maine coast. Where the t…

Local Natural Wonders - Day 30 - Reid State Park

Reid State Park in Georgetown, Maine is a huge and beautiful park. It has a lagoon for swimming, a sandy beach, rocky cliffs and even a river. This is a great place to spend a summer day with the family or take a long hike. It is even a great place for cross country skiing in the winter.

From Maine.gov:

Reid State Park bears the distinct honor as being Maine's first State-owned Saltwater Beach. In 1946, prosperous businessman and Georgetown res…

Local Natural Wonders Day 29 - Great Falls Preserve in New Gloucester, Maine

Great Falls Preserve is a 40-acre preserve in New Gloucester maintained by the Royal River Conservation Trust. Here you will find a 1.5 mile loop trail that includes a scenic waterfall at the mouth of a small wading pool. Glacial erratics, or boulders, and ledges create a bridge of land between two large wetland areas: marshes and beaver ponds. This is an easy hike with many natural features to enjoy along the way.

Di…

Local Natural Wonders - Day 28 Hacker’s Hill Preserve in Casco, Maine

Maintained by Loon Echo Land Trust, Hacker’s Hill is a 27-acre preserve with trails and scenic viewing open to the public. Beautiful vistas of the White Mountains and Lakes Region can be found from the top of the hill (753ft elevation). Keep in mind that the Hacker’s Hill Preserve gate that gives vehicle access to the top is open is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, Sat & Sun 8:30 a.m.to sunset and closed Tuesday and Thursd…

Local Natural Wonders - Day 27 Robinson Woods near Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Robinson Woods is an extensive trail network within 80 acres of woodland, offering recreation opportunities in woods and wetlands. Hike or bike and observe “vernal pools, spring wildflowers, old-growth trees, and a variety of plant and animal habitats.” Trails range from flat and wide to winding and hilly. Outer Loop trail is a 1.4 mile loop that features a river and is ideal for different skill levels. View various trails…

Local Natural Wonders - Day 26 - Mt. Blue Trail at Mt. Blue State Park in Weld, Maine

If you’re looking for a relatively short but challenging hike with an amazing view, Mt. Blue is perfect. Located in Mt. Blue State Park, surrounded by lakes and mountains, and coming in at 2.8 miles round trip, this is a very rewarding hike. It is short, but strenuous and steep at times, so is best for older children and somewhat experienced hikers. Be sure to pack plenty of water and an extra layer of clothin…