MAINE - South Coast

The main feature of this state park is the 484-foot granite cliff that overlooks Casco Bay. Visitors can enjoy the hiking, biking, cross country skiing, and snowmobile trails and picnic areas. Snowshoe rentals are available. There is also a public campground. Open year-round, 9 a.m.-sunset. A fee is charged.

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, named for the pioneering environmentalist, was established to protect coastal habitats of birds and other wildlife. It includes 11 parcels of land along the Maine coast between Kittery and Cape Elizabeth, and it is headquartered in Wells. The refuge welcomes visitors for walking and hiking, fishing, hunting, kayaking and canoeing, and wildlife photography and observation. Information: http://1.usa.gov/102Wp2v
The Carson Trail starts at the Carson headquarters in Wells. It is a one-mile walk with views of one of southern Maine’s most valuable ecosystems. Leashed dogs are allowed on the Carson Trail. All refuge trails are open 7 days a week during daylight hours only. Leashed dogs are allowed on trails. Trail map

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, named for the pioneering environmentalist, was established to protect coastal habitats of birds and other wildlife. It includes 11 parcels of land along the Maine coast between Kittery and Cape Elizabeth, and it is headquartered in Wells. The refuge welcomes visitors for walking and hiking, fishing, hunting, kayaking and canoeing, and wildlife photography and observation. Information: www.fws.gov/northeast/rachelcarson/opportunities.html#trails
The Cutts Island Trail is about 2 miles of 1.8 miles of scenic upland hiking and salt marsh views. Open from sunrise to sunset for walking only. No pets are allowed. Hunting is allowed by permit only from the refuge. Walkers during hunting season should wear an orange hat or vest/coat. Trail map.

This small state park is located between Old Orchard Beach and Camp Ellis. Ocean beach for swimming, clam digging, surf fishing. Visitors can take a nature walk on a shaded trail, learn about sustainable ecosystems, or enjoy a picnic. A stand of tupelo (black gum) trees can be seen in this 100-acre area, which offers a sweeping view of miles of white sand beaches between the Saco River and Pine Point. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from April 1 September 30. Day use fees are adult, $6; senior, $2; children 5-11 years old, $1. Park is open Memorial day to October 1.

Built in 1690, this Colonial fort takes visitors back to the beginnings of coastal Maine's strong maritime background. Hiking trails are also a part of this state historic site, in addition to a picnic area.
Hours: Memorial Day-September 30.
Admission: A fee is charged.
Information: http://www.fortmcclary.org/

This one-to-one-and-a-half mile foot path runs along the shoreline, offering spectacular water views. There are several areas where it is possible to exit the Marginal Way between the two end points. The south end is Jackie's To Restaurants on Perkins Cove Road and the north end is Beach Street and River Road at Ogunquit Beach. You can enter the path at Perkins Cove or the Marginal Way Lighthouse or at the Sparhawk.
Two municipal parking lots serve the Marginal Way. One lot is at Perkins Cove, at the south end of the Marginal Way. Obed's Lot is at the north end of the Marginal Way, and can be entered from Cottage Street (off of Shore Road). Marginal Way Trail Map.
Information: http://marginalwayfund.org/

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, named for the pioneering environmentalist, was established to protect coastal habitats of birds and other wildlife. It includes 11 parcels of land along the Maine coast between Kittery and Cape Elizabeth, and it is headquartered in Wells. The refuge welcomes visitors for walking and hiking, fishing, hunting, kayaking and canoeing, and wildlife photography and observation. Information: www.fws.gov/northeast/rachelcarson/opportunities.html#trails
The trail passes a fresh water wetland and has beautiful salt marsh, river and ocean views. A wheelchair-accessible trail ends at an observation platform overlooking the mouth of the Little River. At the end of the trail, Timber Island is accessible by a land bridge at low tide, only. The trail is open from sunrise to sunset. No pets are allowed on the trail. Foot traffice only. Trail map.

A 250-acre forested park on the Salmon Falls River has hiking trails and picnicn facilities. Open Memorial Day-Labor Day. A fee is charged.