Sometimes, you need to get outside in nature. Immerse yourself in the smell of pine needles deep in a forest. Climb to the summit of a granite peak for a spectacular view. That’s why we love visiting these 8 top Maine state parks and preserves. All are located within an easy drive of our Wolf Cove Inn. Within the boundaries of the state’s protected lands, you can hike, bike, swim, and kayak. Or, simply find a quiet spot to kick back and relax and observe the abundant wildlife.
These parks and preserves are so diverse that you can choose the perfect ones to visit. Select a park that features a well-stocked lake for fishing or boating. Head to the hills for a chance to hike some of the wildest miles along the Appalachian Trail. Follow along a well-marked trail beside 12 miles of river frontage. Or join a guided nature program to learn more about the fragile ecology of our parks and preserves.
No matter what you envision as the perfect day spent in one of Maine’s top state parks, you’ll find all you need to know below.
#1 – Range Pond State Park
Located a mere 10 minutes from Wolf Cove Inn, Range Pond State Park offers a wide, sandy beach, public boat launch, and leisurely hiking and biking trails. Swimming, boating, and watersports tops the list of summer activities. But wintertime offers snowshoeing and snowmobiling, and plenty of ice-fishing.
26 State Park Rd, Poland Spring, ME | (207) 998-4104
#2 – Sebago Lake State Park
One of five original Maine state parks, Sebago Lake State Park sits beside Maine’s deepest lake in the foothills of the White Mountains. While the lake is the featured draw here, several well-marked trails allow you to explore woodlands, bogs, and even a stretch of the Songo River. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and deer while on the trails!
11 Park Access Road, Casco, ME | (207) 693-6231
#3 – Androscoggin Riverlands State Park
The extensive trail network of the Androscoggin Riverlands State Park invites visitors to explore 12 miles of multi-use trails on foot, horseback, bicycle, and ATV. Popular year-round, the trails are open for skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. Parts of the park are only accessible by boat, so it’s a great destination to bring your canoe or kayak.
Center Bridge Road, Turner, ME | (207) 998-4104
#4 – Grafton Notch State Park
Head to Grafton Notch State Park to hike along a portion of the Appalachian Trail. The rugged terrain attracts backcountry hikers eager to tackle steep summit trails for breathtaking views. But even novice hikers will find ample opportunities for less aggressive hikes to waterfalls and gorges. Part of the Maine Birding Trail, Grafton Notch is also noted as a great spot to observe peregrine falcons.
1941 Bear River Road, Newry, ME | (207) 824-2912
#5 – Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
Located not far from the bustling main street outlets in Freeport, Wolfe’s Neck Woods offer a quiet respite from the frenzy of shopping. Picnic under a canopy of oak trees. Hike the popular Casco Bay trail along the rocky coastline. And be sure to keep an eye out for resident osprey.
426 Wolfe’s Neck Road, Freeport, ME | (207) 865-4465
#6 – Bradbury Mountain State Park
With multiple trailheads that lead to the summit of Bradbury Mountain, you can choose the level of difficulty most suited to your abilities. However you choose to reach the summit, the view from the top is breathtaking. The share-use trails are accessible to hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and snowmobiles in winter.
528 Hallowell Road, Pownal, ME | (207) 688-4712
#7 – Western Foothills Land Trust
Founded in 1987, the Western Foothills Land Trust preserves and protects farmland, wetland, and forest for the explicit recreational usage of all who visit. Monthly walks and seasonal programs are open to the public. along with the Norway Triathlon and Norway Snowshoe Festival. This charming town is only a 20-minute drive away from Wolf Cove Inn, and offers many fun things to see and do.
#8 – Loon Echo Land Trust
Also founded in 1987, the Loon Echo Land Trust conserves Maine’s precious natural resources and outdoor spaces for all to experience. Enjoy hunting, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking in 8,500 acres preserved by the land trust. Pack a picnic and enjoy the wildflowers and wildlife that frequent these protected parks, forests, and mountains.
Best Maine Accommodations
Maine’s top state parks and preserves are a valuable asset not only to the state, but also to guests of the Wolf Cove Inn. With access to thousands of acres of preserved forests, lakes, and mountains, you can revel in the great outdoors. At the end of the day, return to your warm and cozy digs at the Inn. Our lovely lake and pine forest will feel like home.
