Maine Hikes

Saco Heath formed when two adjacent ponds filled with decaying plant material called peat. Eventually, the two ponds filled completely and grew together to form a raised coalesced bog, where the surface of the peat is perched above the level of the groundwater. Located in a rapidly growing area of southern Maine, the 1,218-acre preserve features a self-guided hike along a woodland trail to a boardwalk through the heath’s varied peatland communities. In the spring, the heathland plants bloom, spreading a carpet of lavender, pink and white across the heath."

Honored by Down East magazine as Maine’s “Best Overlooked Gem!”. I recently discovered this trail and was very impressed. It is a very easy 2.1-mile out-and-back trail near Saco. Large sections of the trail contain a recently updated boardwalk as well as benches for you to stop and enjoy the wildlife. The beginning portion of the trail begins in a wooded section of the heath with varying segments of hard packed trail and sections of boardwalk. Not far into the walk you will venture out into the openness of the bog which brings a certain type of beauty with it. 

If you are looking for a unique scenic walk that will take less than an hour make sure to add the Saco Heath Preserve to your list!