As deer hunting season gets into full swing in Maine, many people — hunters and non-hunters alike — are looking for places to hike and bike that are off limits to hunting, simply to avoid even the possibility of a mistake or conflict. Hunters and non-hunters generally are successful at safely sharing the use of […]
A couple weeks ago, I wrote a story about letterboxing, an activity that involves searching for containers called letterboxes in public places, such as trail networks and libraries, parks and historic sites. It’s a game that gets you exploring, and it also involves a little bit of creativity. As I learned more about the game, […]
A snake slithered across the trail, and I stopped in my tracks, throwing my arms out to the sides. “Stop, stop,” I said to the three young boys hiking just behind me. Not having seen the camouflaged reptile, the boys — ages 3, 5 and 6 — shot me some questioning looks but obeyed. “Look!” […]
Six years ago, my BDN editors asked me — a full-time reporter — to start one of the first BDN blogs, on which I’d post a series of weekly videos and columns. A bit overwhelmed, I searched for a topic, something I knew that I could write about, photograph and film every week. I chose […]
Before the wind blows the stunning fall foliage off the trees of Maine, consider taking a walk outside and enjoying this colorful time of year. The following are a few hiking trails that I’ve found to be especially beautiful during the fall, from easy walking paths to strenuous cliff climbs. Just click on the name […]
I’ve got a busy weekend coming up, and it’s my goal to meet and talk with as many people as possible about hiking in the Maine outdoors. First, I’ll be participating in the Bangor Book Festival. Starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14, at the Bangor Public Library, I’ll be sharing fun ways to […]
Difficulty: Moderate. The loop trail gradually climbs and descends Scopan Mountain, traveling over unimproved forest floor that includes plenty of roots and some rocks. Stone staircases help hikers gain purchase and climb (or descend) the few steep sections of the trail. The hike is 3.7 miles total. How to get there: From the intersection of […]
The answer is… Scopan Mountain near Presque Isle in northern Maine. The winner, drawn randomly from all who guessed the location correctly, is Emily Kimball! Enjoy the $50 L.L.Bean gift card, Emily! And thanks to everyone for playing. If you’re interested in joining me, my husband and our dog Oreo on this beautiful hike, stay tuned for the “1-minute hike” […]
There’s no better time to admire and learn about the forest in Maine! Whether you’re interested in forestry, foraging, fire-tire biking or simply being outdoors and enjoying some music and refreshments, you should check your calendars and consider attending “A Day in the Woods: Forestry Event,” to be host by the Midcoast Conservancy from 8 a.m. to […]
Difficulty: Strenuous. The hike is 3.4 miles, out and back, and is steep and rocky much of the way. How to get there: Take Interstate 95 Exit 264 and drive north on Route 11 through the towns of Stacyville and Patten. After about 16 miles, turn left onto Mountain Road in the town of Hersey. […]
