Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Trail Mix

By: Ashley Pearson
Photos: Emily Sypher

I love to be outside, and so does my dog. If we get tired of playing fetch in the backyard, then it's time for a road trip to the Bangor City Forest on Stillwater Avenue.

The Bangor City Forest covers about 650 acres, has 4.6 miles of access roads, and 9.2 miles of walking and cross country trails. Right about this time of year, it's flourishing in greenery and wildlife.

It's a great place for critters and people alike. If you have a dog, make sure to keep your pet on a leash and bring doggie poo-poo bags just in case.

For those who are directionally challenged, the city provides maps at the parking lot to ensure that no one gets lost. Plus, there's plenty of signs along the trails that will point you in the right direction. There's a high probability that you'll run into walkers or bikers on the trails too.

There's also a bunch of neat little information tid-bits on the trails. While you're walking through the serene woods, pause to read a few. You might learn the names of trees, plants, and even the life cycle of insects. Way cool.

Don't miss the Orono Bog Boardwalk either: It's a roughly 500-foot-long wooden walkway over wetland and peat.

By the time you're done exploring the bog and the forest (make sure you climb the landfill for a spectacular view) enjoy a snack at the picnic tables where you left your car.

1 comments:

Unknown said...

Only the boardwalk has information on plants and wildlife; none of the trails does. Also, the boardwalk is 4,200 feet long, not 500. You have to walk 800 feet alone to reach the opening.