One of the lures of fantasy and fairy tale stories is the scenery that sets the stage. The lush forests with sun rays peeking through the canopy make it seem like magic is possible. It is the untouched land, moss-covered stones, and signs of the past that make these stories immersive. We know of a trail in Hallowell, Maine that checks all of those off the list. It is even nicknamed Hobbit Land so you know that traveling these woods will be an epic adventure.

Vaughan Woods in Hallowell, Maine is a protected wilderness and has 2.5 miles of trails.

There is a main loop and a couple of spur trails to add to the adventure. There is a parking lot off of Litchfield Road which most consider the entrance. However, that parking lot usually fills up pretty fast so you can also park at the Hall-Dale High School near the tennis courts.

While traversing the trails it is easy to see why they call it Hobbit Land.

Throughout the 197 acres of preserved land, you will see a resemblance to the Shire. There are no hobbit holes, unfortunately, but what you will see is an untouched and natural place for recreation.

No matter what trail you take, you will eventually end up in a large field.

The beautiful tall grass will sway and dance in the breeze. One mighty tree in the middle stands high and proud, this is a popular spot to rest under the shade of its massive branches.

Eventually, you will find an arch bridge sitting over a steady stream - as if laid down by accident by people that came before us. The water flows over the rocks and is a peaceful place to explore and enjoy the bridge.

Standing on the bridge, you will see the large dam feeding the stream below.

Big stones are stacked on top of each other and give way to water pouring through the old cracks. Most of the year you will see water pouring out but during heavy rain or in the spring when the snow melts the dam gives way to a roaring flow. It may not be a natural waterfall but water will fall from the dam creating a beautiful scene.

To the sides of the dam, you can even climb up on top of the large granite structure.

When you step out onto the wide dam you will be greeted by the still waters of the Cascade Pond. The calm waters will reflect the surrounding trees making for a picturesque spot.

Hidden in the forest is a more adventurous trail that leads to a high stone bridge.

This high arch bridge will often be covered in moss making it seem like it is straight out of a fairy tale. With heavy tree cover and a location high above the stream, this bridge is a true hidden gem adding to the fun that can be had at Vaughan Woods.

This amazing trail system in Hallowell, Maine is a great place to explore. From top to bottom you will feel the resemblance of the land the hobbits live and you will walk through a real-life fairy tale. The woods are open all year round and are beautiful in every season. If you want to see the frozen spires at the dam and a fresh coat of snow in the Vaughan Woods then check out this Adventuring in the Moment video.

https://youtu.be/7WbUByKtk7c

For another natural area to explore in the area any time of the year make sure to visit Viles Arboretum in Augusta, Maine.