Long Cove Headwaters Preserve (Searsport)

The Coastal Mountain Land Trust owns the 456 acre Long Cove Headwaters Preserve in Searsport.  I hiked the preserve's 2.5 mile trail system this morning, snowshoeing through a variety of forested habitats in freshly fallen snow.  I encountered a number of animal tracks along the way, including one I was not able to recognize but which appeared to belong to an animal that is low to the ground (see picture below).

Here is a map of my hike.

Short Walk at Sandy Point Beach

My son and I were working on getting the hours he needs for his driver's license so stopped quickly at Sandy Point Beach to stretch our legs.  In addition to the 1/2 mile long beach, the park also has a small trail system.  We hiked a short trail to an overlook before continuing on our way.  

Brewer Riverwalk

My son and I trudged along the Brewer Riverwalk today, enjoying the 50 degree temperatures but sloshing through the rapidly melting snow.  

Viles Arboretum (Augusta)

A friend and I hiked at the Viles Arboretum in Augusta this morning.  The 224 acre arboretum has 6 miles of trails leading through fields and forests showcasing a variety of botanical collections.  For more information visit www.vilesarboretum.org.  

Macworth Island State Park (Falmouth)

I hiked the perimeter trail at Macworth Island State Park today as the last hike of my 3-day Rochester, New York trip.  The 1.5 mile trail provides excellent views of Casco Bay and Portland's Eastern Promenade. 

Mendon Ponds Park (Honeoye Falls, NY)

The Birdsong Fairy Trail in Mendon Ponds Park was one of several short walks we did during my visit to Rochester, New York.   The fact that wild birds ate food from our hands made this trail stand out.  

The 2,500 acre county park has miles of trails, a boat launch, and a wildlife education center featuring rehabilitated raptors and mammals.  

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge (Kennebunk)

As much as I love to travel I have a strong dislike for long distance solo driving. This weekend I was visiting Rochester, New York so to break up the drive I planned my trip in 3-hour increments, finding short hikes along my route. The ideal hike would take around 30 to 45 minutes and be enough to stretch my legs without making me tired for the next leg of the trip. 

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge was the perfect fit.  The trail is one mile long, flat, close to 95 yet with a remote feel.  The trail overlooks a beautiful salt marsh.