It's widely known that Maine has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the country. Soaring granite cliffs lined with lush stands of evergreen and distant islands shimmering against the sea, make our rugged coast truly a sight to see.
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Out of our 3,478 miles of coastline, Seawall Beach might just be my favorite beach of all. It is a pristine stretch of sand secreted away on the Phippsburg Peninsula, between the Morse and Sprague River outlets, only accessible via a two-mile hike through the beautiful Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area. This gentle, if not lengthy, hike climbs 177 feet up paved or packed gravel paths to the top of Morse Mountain, where you'll enjoy sweeping views of the beach and marshland below. It makes me wonder if whoever first uttered "Half the journey is getting there," was talking about Maine.
Since there's more to this trip than just the beach, it's a worthwhile excursion all year round. Maine beaches are just as beautiful – not to mention quieter – in the winter, spring and fall.
A state like Maine is full of avid outdoor enthusiasts. It's hard not to enjoy being outside where there are so many mountains, beaches, and forests to see. But, the one misconception about the outdoors that we wish would end is the idea that you must be an intrepid explorer to appreciate all that the state has to offer. This couldn't be further from the truth! There are tons of short and simple ways to get outside including one of the best loop trails in Maine that's perfect to try any time of year.
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One of the most interesting things about Mackworth Island in Falmouth is that it isn't really an island at all. A bit of land is located at the end of a causeway, this portion of town feels a bit more remote.
Make your way to the end of the short connector and you'll find the entrance to Mackworth Island State Park, perfect for a day of outdoor fun without the hassle of heading to a busy mountain trail. Just beyond this guard gate, you'll find the parking area, which gets quite busy during the summer. You'll want to plan ahead to arrive early.
The trail is flat and easy to navigate, leading you right back to the starting point. Along the way, you'll even find spots to stop and take in the scenery. Pictured here is one of our favorites!
Casco Bay is always a beauty and we love how the landscape transforms depending on the season. Spring and summer are gorgeous and green, but autumn and winter have their own way of coming alive. You'll think this is one of the best hiking trails in Maine with all the scenery!
The entire trip won't take long if you choose to simply follow the trail, but we always allow for more time to visit the water. There's also a fun fairy village on the inside of the trail that you'll want to see. The more imaginative kids (and kid-like grown-ups!) will want to spend a little extra time helping to build the fairies' new houses.
Once you've enjoyed your time on Mackworth Island, simply continue along the trail until you reach the starting point and your car. As one of the most enjoyable Maine hiking trails, it's a great way to spend a morning, afternoon, or even the entire day.
Mackworth Island State Park can be visited year-round, but if you appreciate warm weather hiking without snow and ice you'll want to visit in the late spring and summer. Parking can be difficult in the summer, so plan on arriving early to get a space. There's no overflow parking here so if you can't find a space, you'll need to leave and try again later. You can learn more about Mackworth Island State Park by visiting the official Falmouth Maine website. You can learn more about this hiking trail, one of the best loop trails in Maine, on alltrails.com or Maine Trail Finder. You should also download the handy AllTrails+ app to guide you on this and any other trail.
Each day in Vacationland is another opportunity for some of the best natural surroundings in New England. But you don't need to strap on your hiking boots to experience what this incredible state has to offer. This boardwalk trail in Maine - Orono, to be exact - will have you immersed in nature without the uphill slog. It might just be one of the best hikes in Maine!
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The Orono Bog Boardwalk trail is a 1-mile boardwalk loop beginning at the Bangor City Forest.
With its tall trees and sometimes misty feel, there are portions that will make you feel as though you've been transported to an entirely different region of the US.
Throughout the walk, you'll find a number of signs with illustrations of local bog plants and animals, as well as detailed explanations that bring life to your experience.
Learn more about the Orono Bog Boardwalk Trail, one of the best hikes in Maine, via AllTrails. There's another beautiful boardwalk trail can be found at Saco Heath Preserve.
Looking for more to explore? Check out this stunning footage of Acadia National Park:
