Before its waters were harnessed for dams and polluted with industrial waste, the Presumpscot was a clear and swift-moving river that plunged over 12 sets of falls in its 24-mile course from Sebago Lake to Casco Bay. Improvements in water quality have renewed recreational interest in the river, after decades in which people kept far Read More
Hiking
We are fortunate that Maine has hundreds of miles of trails to explore. These locations are great for all levels of hiking—from winding trails along Maine's coast to high mountain peaks in western Maine and beyond. Always check the weather before heading out, and let a friend or family member know where you are headed if you are hiking alone. Don't forget to check in when you return. Enjoy your time exploring Maine's public lands!
Rangeley Lakes Region
The Land for Maine’s Future (LMF) program has helped to conserve three recreational gems in the Rangeley Lakes region. An LMF grant enabled Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust to purchase Bald Mountain from International Paper. The Trust subsequently transferred this 1,873-acre tract to the Bureau of Parks and Lands for management as the Bald Mountain Public Reserve. A Read More
River-Link Trail
Multiple conservation partners have joined forces to establish the River-Link Trail, a 10-mile stretch of protected freshwater and tidal streams, forests, shorelands, and trails connecting the Sheepscot and Damariscotta Rivers. By linking existing conservation holdings, this corridor will enhance the ecological value of established preserves and create a unique 20-mile hiking experience in Midcoast Maine. Read More
Round and Long Ponds
Knowing that Round Pond was a popular destination for fishermen seeking bass and brown trout, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (IF&W) began looking for a water access site on its shores more than a decade ago. Finally, in 2000, the State had an opportunity to acquire an attractive, wooded 17-acre parcel, bordering Read More
Robinson Woods Preserve
Expansive growth around Greater Portland has consumed many tracts of community open space that once offered valuable wildlife habitat and opportunities for walks and family outings. Thanks to the vision and generosity of the former landowner, Robinson Woods will remain a community resource that generations of local residents can enjoy. The property was offered to Read More
Sabattus Mountain
Two Land for Maine’s Future program grants enabled the state to purchase 177 acres on and around Sabattus Mountain in Center Lovell, protecting hiking access to Lovell’s highest peak. A one-mile trail leads up to the 1,253-foot summit, where immense cliffs mark the southwestern side–providing clear views out to the White Mountains and Kezar Lake Read More
Salmon Brook Lake Bog
At 1,857 acres, this expansive northern white cedar bog (extending out from Salmon Brook Lake) supports an array of northern plant species rare in Maine. It is home to the white water lily, pygmy water lily, marsh valerian, northern valerian, swamp pink, swamp honeysuckle, small round-leaf orchid, purple pyrola, Lapland buttercup, and showy lady’s slippers. Read More
Sandy Point Beach
Recognizing the need for greater shore access around Inner Penobscot Bay, the State had long sought a property that could provide area residents with a site for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking and windsurfing. A 100-acre property on Sandy Point in Stockton Springs offered all the attributes the State had been seeking–with more than a half-mile of Read More
Sawyer Mountain Highlands
The Sawyer Mountain Highlands rise more than 1,000 feet over the floodplains of the Saco, Ossipee, and Little Ossipee Rivers, supporting a diverse array of natural features. High ledges offer views out to Casco Bay and the White Mountains. For more than a decade, the Francis Small Heritage Trust (FSHT) has worked to conserve the natural Read More
