I found a love for hiking and being in nature several years ago. Last year, I decided to take part in a hiking challenge. The idea was simple, one hike a week, at least one mile. When I first started, I could hardly walk a mile. I kept challenging myself and exploring new trails. My last hike was over four miles!
I found so many enchanting bugs, flowers, and mushrooms. Below are some of my favorite places to adventure close to home.
Wells Barrens Preserve, Wells, Maine
https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/wells-barrens-preserve/
This trail is a mostly flat, easy walk. There are multiple loops and different ways to adventure. There isn't much shade at the Wells Barrens, so wear sun protection and bring water. The trail exhibits signage of its history, including one that says black racer snakes inhabit the area. This appears to be false advertising, as I haven't seen one there yet.
Orris Falls Conservation Area, South Berwick, Maine
https://gwrlt.org/orris-falls-conservation-area/
I rated this trail more challenging than others, but it is worth the trek to see the balancing rock. Be sure to also visit the Littlefield Homestead while you are there. There are some old rusty tools around the house foundation to see. It is a hilly, rough terrain, so bring snacks and plenty of water.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, Wells, Maine
https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Carson%20Trail%20Brochure.pdf
A short 1-mile loop that never ceases to amaze. This trail is beautiful during every season. Spring is my favorite, as the lady slippers and ghost pipes are easily found throughout the walk. While strolling along the loop, you will experience salt marshes, the ocean, and other critical aspects of the ecosystem.
Saco Heath Preserve, Saco, Maine
https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/saco-heath-preserve/
The Saco Heath is one of the most unique trails I have experienced! This trail allows you to walk through the heath safely on a boardwalk. There are many unique trees and greenery, including pitcher plants. While this is not the most challenging trail, it is well worth the experience and seeing it firsthand.
For All Forever Preserve, Kennebunk, Maine
https://kennebunklandtrust.org/for-all-forever/
What a magical walk and so close to home! With beauty to see during any season on this trail, fall is my favorite time to go. As soon as you park, you are surrounded by beautiful vegetation. The trail goes downhill to a loop where you will find a bench to sit and take it all in. My first experience with this walk was during the winter when the body of water around the loop was frozen. During the fall, I saw hundreds of orb weaver webs throughout my trek.
Gonic Falls, Rochester, New Hampshire
https://www.rochesternh.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif9211/f/file/file/the_gonic_trails_map.pdf
This is a wonderful historical place to explore, including sights of a home and barn foundation, a granite quarry, pegmatites, and vernal pools. There are three different trails to experience and a waterfall that people swim in during the warmer months. Click on the link above to learn more about these trails' historical aspects.
Siemon Access Trail, Milton Mills, New Hampshire
https://branchhillfarm.org/visit-us/trails-maps/
Wildflowers, butterflies, and gorgeous scenic river views are just some of the enchanting aspects of this trail. Once fully engulfed in the experience, birdsongs will allow you to transport to a new level of Zen. This close to 4-mile loop brings you to different bodies of water, large open fields, and alluring sounds and sights of wildlife.
Emmons Preserve, Kennebunkport, Maine
https://www.kporttrust.org/emmons-preserve/
Enjoy footbridges, educational trails, a cemetery, and a labyrinth at Emmons Preserve. There are multiple trails to explore; downloading the map before you go will make it easier once you arrive. You can also pack a lunch and eat on the homestead deck.
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