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Located off of Shore Road in Cape Elizabeth, Robinson Woods Preserve contains 197 acres of woodlands, fields, ponds, streams, waterfalls and massive white pine, red oak and hemlock - some as many as 300 years old! It offers over four miles of public trails on varied terrain, open year round for hiking, mountain biking and snow shoeing. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on leash. Read about Enock Glidden's experience using a wheelchair on these trails through Maine Trail Find

Peak's Island is one of my favorite local summer adventures. It includes a boat ride, a 3.9 mile loop with stellar views, historic forts to explore, and just enough food/coffee/ice cream stops to keep the crew happy. The perimeter road is paved and mostly flat, with benches along the way. This is a dog-friendly island and these trails are maintained by the Peaks Island Preserve . Served by the Casco Bay Lines, the 20 minute ferry ride from downtown Portland to Peak's is a jou

The path leading me to new trails is not always calculated or well planned. There's no master list or method to the madness. Still, I continue to find new trails every week because they are quite literally everywhere. Sometimes the best way to find them, is to just open your eyes. Last week, Finn and his friends asked if I'd bring them to the new skatepark in Gorham. My dog also (desperately) needed a walk, so I brought her with us in hopes of finding a trail nearby. The ska

At 212 acres in size, this is the largest undeveloped property in Cumberland (163 acres) and part of North Yarmouth (50 acres). It includes a 46-acre great pond with two smaller ponds, forested uplands, a network of connecting trails, wetlands, streams and views of Casco Bay and Mount Washington. This is a critical wildlife habitat and a great place to kayak, canoe, hike, bike, snowshoe, cross-country ski, and ice skate. This spot includes ample parking and is less than 12 mi

An accessible path that's plowed and sanded in the winter. This flat, 5.3 mile out and back path is just outside of downtown Brunswick. The paved path is 14 feet wide, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are also benches and bathrooms along the way. The surprise I found here was a large, somewhat empty dog park near the beginning of the path. I'm not usually into dog parks, but this one was different...spacious, just a few dogs, just my speed. Parking for this trail

Formerly known as the Chaffin Pond Preserve, this 123 acre wooded area includes a 1.5 mile loop around a 10 acre pond. The dirt trail is flat and the snow is groomed in the winter. Dogs are allowed on leash and this trail is listed as ADA Accessible. There is also a playground and picnic tables. It's a family friendly affair over here. We followed the loop counter-clockwise, beginning at the storybook walk. The trail leads into the woods and away from the pond for a little wh

These wide gravel trails, lined with benches, are wonderful for all ages and abilities! Dogs are also permitted, but must be on leash. There is no hunting in the Town Forest, but hunting is allowed in nearby property. Please remember to wear your orange - hunting season is now. Located at 290 Tuttle Road in Cumberland, this 75-acre community forest includes two trail loops covering 2 miles in network. Parking is at the Cumberland Town Hall and you will find the trailhead to t

This park offers 5 miles of walking trails, a wheelchair and stroller accessible path, picnic areas, restrooms, and public nature programs. There is a fee upon entry, but you are welcome to walk in and enjoy the park during daylight hours, even when the gate is closed. Wolfe's Neck opened in 1972 when over 200 acres of ecosystems was given to the State by the Smith family of Freeport. This land includes hemlock forests, a salt marsh estuary and rocky shores of Casco Bay and t

It's mid February. How are you holding up? I can't say this time of year brings the same level of euphoria that we all feel in the summer. What I can say, quite confidently, is that being outside is the answer to staying happy in the dark, cold months. Due to the combination of researching trails, running an outdoor program, and having a puppy, I've spent more time outside this winter than ever before. The result has been increased energy, no real mood dips (unless I've just

Five words sum up the reason this park is ideal for walks with family members of all ages: scooters, skateboards, bikes, strollers, ADA accessible. It is also a short 1/4 mile walk to downtown Yarmouth for pizza at Otto's or coffee at Handy's. Socially distanced, quality time with the kids, the grandparents, and the dog - check. The 5 foot wide, paved path follows a 1.3 mile loop along the impressive Royal River. The trail includes three waterfalls, two are at old dam sites a