This Maine Park Has Endless Boardwalks And You’ll Want To Explore Them All

Getting out into Maine's outdoors doesn't have to be hard. In fact, some of the most beautiful outdoor attractions are also the easiest to find and to explore. A great example of this is the Orono Bog Boardwalk system in Orono. Run by the University of Maine, this beautiful park allows visitors to explore a natural wetland while learning about the important ecological system that keeps the state running smoothly and beautifully.

To learn more about the nature of Maine and how to explore it best, consider joining the Maine Nature Lovers Facebook group. Members share photos, ask questions and discuss their best tips and tricks for maximizing their time outside.

You can access the Orono Bog Boardwalk by entering the Bangor City Forest.

A few minutes of walking will lead you to the town line of Orono, officially beginning the trail.

The trail is owned and maintained by the University of Maine.

It's made of hundreds of, 8-foot sections, which were just revitalized this May to create more area for exploration.

In fact, 96 new sections were just added and fundraising is happening now to add more by Spring 2019.

The boardwalk runs through natural wetland as well as a mixed wooded area, eventually looping around to a peat bog.

Throughout the park are 7 interpretative stations helping visitors to understand the geology, plants, and animals in individual areas.

These areas also offer a great opportunity to take a break and simply sit within the nature.

While the wooded areas include black spruce and a variety of conifers, there are also beautiful blooming plants and flowers along the way including bog rosemary, rhodora, sheep laurel, bog cranberry, and four different species of orchid.

Bird lovers will appreciate the many species that can be spotted here at varying times of year.

But, don't feel too much pressure to be on the lookout.

The Orono Bog Boardwalk is simply a wonderful place to detach and unplug while taking in the unique ecology of Maine.

In 1974, the Orono Bog was designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service. One visit and you'll see why!

Thanks to Maine Trail Finder for helping in the research for this article.

To get to the Orono Bog Boardwalk from Bangor take Exit 186. Take a right to stay on Stillwater Ave. passing Hogan Rd. In about 1.5 miles you'll reach Tripp Dr. Turn left onto Tripp Dr. and keep an eye out for signs indicating Bangor City Forest and the Bog Boardwalk. Park in the City Forest parking lot then follow the East Trail about 0.25 miles towards the Boardwalk.

To learn more about the park and the mission, visit them on Facebook.

There's another park in Maine offering a short and simple boardwalk trail through nature. Click here to check it out!