2017 Visitor's Guide

PEDAL, PADDLE, WALK Come frolic in some of Greater Portland's top spots to enjoy the outdoors!

Bicycle tour at Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth

BIKE

KAYAK

HIKE

The 4-mile Peaks Island Loop follows paved roads that circle the island nearest to Portland, a mere 15 minute ferry ride away. The road is mostly flat with minimal traffic, and periodic benches allow you to stop and enjoy the views to the Atlantic. Cycle off-road in South Portland on the 5.6 mile Greenbelt Walkway, from the Wainwright Athletic complex, near the Scarborough town line, to Bug Light Park, where Liberty Ships were built during WWII. Along the way, enjoy vistas of the Portland waterfront. Just west of Freeport, Pineland Farms has over 5,000 acres of beautiful woodlands and fields open to the public. Their 18 mile groomed trail system is perfect for mountain biking. With its rolling terrain, the River Loop is excellent for family rides. Add the Valley Farm Loop for more of a challenge.

An easy 1.5 mile trail offering excellent views of Casco Bay circles 100-acre Mackworth Island, connected to Falmouth by a cause- way. Generally level with no major barriers to wheelchairs on the main loop. Small side trails follow steep slopes to the shore. Popular for walking and running, the 3.6mile Back Cove Trail offers fantastic views of Portland’s skyline from a paved path nestled along the water. The loop trail is mostly flat, with a slight rise along the stretch that paral- lels I-295. Connects to the Bayside and Eastern Promenade Trails under Tukey’s Bridge. Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal provides 21 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to advanced . Although only 485 feet high, the summit offers sweeping views towards Casco Bay and stunning fall foliage. Reward your exertions with a good meal in nearby Freeport.

Take off from Peak’s Island, Portland’s East End Beach, or Willard Beach in South Portland for an afternoon or full day exploring the nooks and crannies of Casco Bay and the nearby Calendar Islands. To explore ScarboroughMarsh—an import- ant resting, breeding and feeding grounds for birds and animals—put in at the Maine Audubon Center on Rt 9 in Scarborough. Be careful of the tides which make it more difficult to paddle in a certain direction, depending on which way the tide is flowing. Paddlers can enjoy a beautiful stretch of the Presumpscot River between Saccarappa Falls and the Cumberland Mills Historic District in Westbrook. The river’s calm water makes it an ideal location for all skill levels. You can also put in at Lincoln Street and enjoy 5 miles of splendid scenery between Westbrook and Windham.

PHOTO: CHRIS RICCARDO/VISITPORTLAND

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