While it's definitely still summer in Maine, we're getting ready to plan some of our favorite fall hikes. Many of the routes in Maine can be done any time of year (as long as you love snow!) but some are just a little more special this time of year. Maybe it's the fact that we know deep green forests will soon give way to multicolored foliage. Or maybe it's just that any hike at any time of year is great here. Either way, this route through the forest is a great one!
Originally owned by the Rines family, the town of Cumberland bought the property in 2003 and turned it into a conservation easement in 2005. What does that mean? It means that it's a beautiful place to explore the woodlands of Maine!
The woodland area is comprised of 216-acres which make for a beautiful hike.
Throughout the forest visitors will find diverse wildlife, waterfalls, and streams flowing to the Piscataqua River.
The forest is made up of large hemlock and pine trees. These will tower over you in many places. Visitors can also spot red oak, birch, poplar and maple trees.
The network of paths through the area are about 2.5 miles are mainly flat. Each is clearly marked with different colors for an easier trip.
There are parts of this forest that feel a million miles away from anything else.
And while we love the greenery of the spring, the fall foliage is breathtaking as well.
While the trails can be accessed any time of year, parts of the forest are wet and should be visited only in the winter. Look out for posted signs when you arrive at the trailhead.
To find the trailhead make your way to Range Road. The parking area for the trail is about 1.2 miles northwest of the intersection with Winn Road.
The Rines Forest can be accessed without a mandatory fee and pets are permitted on leash. You can learn more about it and see a map here. You can also learn more about the Chebeague and Cumberland Land Trust on Facebook.
For a little more of those summer vibes, check out these 9 beach hikes in Maine. Can't make it in the next week? Don't worry! They're great year-round, just like the rest of Maine!
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