Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Vaughn Woods Memorial
, South Berwick. A self-guided nature trail
threads through this 250-acre preserve along the Salmon Falls River.
Trail was once an Indian trade route. Picnicking, parking area.
384-
5160.
Wells Estuary Reserve
, Wells. 1,600 acres of fields, forest, wetlands,
and beach comprise the Wells Estuary Reserve. Three rivers meet the sea
here, including the Merriland, Webhannet, and the Uttle. Created
around historic Laudholm Farm, which features exhibits and visitor cen-
ters. Seven miles of hiking trails. Hours vary. Access is free. Fee for park-
ing in July and August. RR 2, Box 806, Wells 04090.
646-4521.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
,Wells. Established in 1966,
this collection of estuary preserves will eventually total more than 7,000
acres. It is dedicted to author Rachel Carson, whose seminal work
Silent
Spring
helped awaken the world to the environmental dangers of pesti-
cides.
More than 250 species of birds can be seen in or near the refuge over the
course of a year, including upland, migratory and shore birds. A one-mile
nature trail built specially for handicapped access begins at the head-
quarters site on Route 9 on Wells/Kennebunk border. This main area of
the preserve boasts 3,600 acres. Literature and maps also available at
headquarters. Refuge open daily all year. Office open weekdays. RR 2
Box 751, Wells 04090.
646-9226.
Wood Island
, Biddeford. A 42-acre offshore island with lighthouse, this
is an Audubon Society preserve. Access restricted during nesting season.
Terrain includes shrubs and some woods. Boardwalk bisects island. Wa-
ter access only. Permission must be obtained to visit.
781-2330.
Natural Areas/Preserves
Basket Island
, Cumberland. Nine-acre island maintained by
the Cumberland Mainland and Islands Trust. Partially forested.
Occasional osprey sightings. Picnicking and day use allowed.
Boat access. (No telephone.)
Gilsland Farm
, Falmouth. This former farm is the headquarters for the
Maine Audubon Society. It is open dawn to dusk year-round. There are
2½ miles of trails through the farm's 70 acres - which border the
Presumpscot River - and a gift shop. Easy bike ride from Portland.
781-2330.
