Today Wilma and I Adventured to Mid-Coast Maine for four Adventures. Although I do not know if Mid-Coast Maine is technically defined, that is how I will categorize our Adventures today. We visited: Wolfe Neck State Park, Robinson Cove, Doubling Point Lighthouse, and Fort Williams Park, the home to Portland Head Lighthouse. We loved exploring the shoreline, hiking, the spectacular geography of the rocks, and the perfect Fall weather. Since I have blogged about the two Parks somewhat recently, I thought I would share some of my many favorite photographs in one collage. I did a separate blog of Doubling Point Lighthouse, however will still include some of my favorites here. Wolfe Neck State Park and Fort Williams are definitely on my top Maine State Parks…so far! Hope you will enjoy these photographs of a wonderful day.
Category: Maine
October 3, 2020 – Doubling Point Lighthouse – Maine
Today Wilma and I Adventured to Doubling Point Lighthouse in Arrowsic, Maine. Doubling Point Lighthouse is located on the Kennebec River at the end of a small pier. The Lighthouse was built in 1898. It is located on private property but it is open for visitors.
We had a fun Adventure to the Doubling Point Lighthouse. We had attempted to visit this Lighthouse on one occasion but it was closed. Therefore I was especially excited to visit today. Upon arrival we found a group of visitors at the Lighthouse, so began our Adventure exploring on the side. We located a little path through the tall colored grass and down to the River’s edge. I loved this secretive little spot with varying colors of grass, and a large coastal tree branch. It was simple yet uniquely beautiful. Once the visitors on the boardwalk departed we headed over to see the Lighthouse.
It took me a minute to figure out how to open the gate at the beginning of the boardwalk and before I could open it Wilma jumped through the triangular hole causing a nice laugh as I figured how to untangle her and go through myself. Never a dull moment with this enthusiastic girl. We then headed down the pier, my favorite aspect of this Lighthouse. We walked down and around the Lighthouse, back and forth, enjoying the scenery around us and this peaceful location. Thankfully we had some time to appreciate this Lighthouse before the next visitors arrived. Before departing we checked out the Lighthouse from the opposite side. Being that the Lighthouse was on private property it was not a place we felt appropriate to sit and relax. However, we were quite thankful that these kind property owners allowed visitors. So glad we could Adventure to Doubling Point Lighthouse today (Rating: 4).
June 26, 2020 – Fort Williams – Maine
Yesterday Wilma, My Mom and I visited Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Fort Williams Park is a 90 acres Park located in the Casco Bay. It includes: the Portland Head Lighthouse and museum, the Goddard Mansion, beautiful coastal views, and historic ruins. It was formerly a United States Army Fort, but in 1979 became designated as Fort Williams State Park.
We had a perfect Adventure to Fort Williams Park. My last blog on this location was two years ago with Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I so I thought it was good timing to blog again. We began our Adventure by visiting some ruins, and then heading down to the coastal Trail. The coast was lined with flowers, framing the Lighthouse. After walking for a bit and appreciating the colorful flowers we ventured to the Lighthouse. The amazing thing about thing about the Portland Head Lighthouse is that you can walk up to it and around. It is just immense, and so picturesque. As you walk around you can also see gorgeous water views, with the waves crashing into the shores. Just a special location in all ways!
From there we wandered to another coastal Trail viewing the Lighthouse from the opposite side. Wilma made some friends with some visitors which is always a smiling moment. After walking and exploring we decided to have a Gelato. This is something we were thinking about on our last summer visit, but it closed before we had planned on stopping back. The Gelato was a drippy, sticky, yet refreshing. I was disappointed that there was no dog ice cream, however Wilma did get at couple spoons of an acceptable alternative. After this savoring snack we decided to find a spot in the shade to sit, relax, and enjoy the coastal view. Although this location was much cooler then the last, it was still a steamy day. We chatted away, relaxed and cooled down before heading off to our next location in the Park.
We then decided to explore some more of the coastal Trail, and of course yet another view of Portland Head. The Trails were lovely. From afar we could see the Ram Lighthouse, the closest view from the shore. We walked and walked, I really could not get enough. At one point I decided to take a steep walk with Wilma down to the rocks. I left my camera with Mom so she could snap a couple photographs from afar. See if you can find this photograph below??!! Wilma sipped from a tidal pool and absolutely loved some rock hopping! I only took one video on this Adventure, which took place from this location. It was so peaceful, the sounds of the crashing so therapeutic. Such a serene and scenic moment.
Our next part of the day was visiting the little beach. It was at this point of the we were transitioning to this stop that there was a quick downpour, mostly occurring when we were in the car. It appeared to briefly cool down the air, and made for quite the raging sky. The rocks on the beach were round, and abundant, quite dramatically framing the beach. Wilma and I walked through the rocks and to the small sandy shore. Wilma entered the water as requested, but would rush out when the small raves came racing toward her. It was fun to watch her, not seeming to realized this was a continual occurrence.
Our last part of the day was visiting more of the ruins, and the Goddard mansion, quite a unique addition to this coastal park. I love ruins, especially when you can climb on, explore, and check out spectacular views from atop. We appreciated these locations, and took many photographs, as per the usual.
We spent about four hours cherishing this magnificent Park! I did not want to leave! We definitely will be back to Fort Williams Park in the future (Rating: 4.5)
June 2020
February 2019
July 2017
June 26, 2020 – Mill Creek Park – Maine
Today Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Mill Creek Park in South Portland, Maine. Mill Creek Park is a 10 acre urban Park that contains a pond with a fountain, a gazebo, and small gardens. The Park is popular for seasonal activities, including: Winterfest, holiday tree lighting, summer concerts, and Art in the Park. There are benches throughout the park to sit and relax.
We had a relaxing Adventure to Mill Creek Park. I had read about this park before our visit and knew it was a small, and simple park. However we were drawn in by the beautiful pond, ducks, and vast areas of shade so decided to stop and explore. We began our visit by finding a quiet spot in the shade to eat our lunch. It was nice to find a cool spot to relax and enjoy the scenic water view.
After eating we walked around the pond to check out the sites. The Park was highlighted by the pond, filled with beautiful lily pads, ducks and geese, and also the fountain. Wilma was quite thrilled to see the ducks and geese often standing on her hind feet as she hoped to chase them. Along our walk we also appreciated the many colorful flowers, and some small gardens. It was a scenic location. Unfortunately it was hard to ignore the geese poop throughout the park, but besides that we enjoyed our visit to this small, but lovely location. So glad we were able to Adventure to Mill Creek Park today (Rating: 3.5)
June 26, 2020 – Portland Breakwater Lighthouse/Bug Light – Maine
Today My Mom, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Portland Breakwater Lighthouse in Portland, Maine. This Lighthouse if often referred to as “Bug Light” due its small size. The Portland Breakwater Lighthouse was built in 1875 and is known as one of the fancier lighthouses in Maine. It is an active lighthouse, and is located in Bug Light Park, providing views of the Casco Bay.
We had a steamy Adventure to the Portland Breakwater Lighthouse/Bug Light. Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I had Adventured to this Lighthouse back in February 2018, so I decided it made sense to blog about it again. I was surprised to arrive at Bug Light Park on a very warm day, hoping that coastal Maine would be a cooler experience, however that was not the case. Upon arriving at the Park, and began exploring the path along the shore. The water was bright blue and their were some sailboats throughout. Wilma posted on the rocks, and enjoyed watching other visitors throwing rocks into the sea.
From there my Mom found a spot to sketch and Wilma and I headed off to get a close-up view of the Lighthouse. We walked down the breakwater right up to the Lighthouse. We trotted around and appreciated the views, and a small breeze. The Portland Breakwater Lighthouse/Bug Light was simple, but yet perfect in structure. We spent a little time walking around but found the Park to be a little chaotic with off leash dogs, and quite hot so we soon decided to head off to our next Adventure. So glad we could visit the Portland Breakwater Lighthouse/Bug Light today (Rating: 3.5)
June 26, 2020
February 2020
Throwback Adventure – Jordan Pond, Maine – August 2015
In remembering our Shadow I decided to re-post some of our favorite Adventures on our “Throwback Adventure” Thursdays. Shadow had amazing solo Adventures, Adventures with Buster, and Adventures with Wilma. He was one lucky boy! The post today was from a trip to Jordan Pond in Acadia Park that Shadow, Buster, and My Mom took back in August 2015. One of my favorite memories was the journey Shadow, Buster, and I took around the gorgeous Jordan Pond. There were boardwalks, rocks, bridges, and mountains, breathtaking beauty. Forever precious memories! Please see below for my original post including photographs and a video.
I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Throwback Adventure”, and will plan on posting them every Thursday. These are journeys we have taken before I started the blog, but are well worth sharing.
In August 2015 My Mom, Shadow, Buster, and I journeyed to Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park, Maine. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He had an amazing zest for life, led by his joyous howl, and happy tail. We made many memories on adventures, that we fondly treasure. He will always be missed!!
Jordan Pond was formed by the Wisconsin Ice Sheet during the last glacial period. It has mountains to the west and northeast. The loop trail around the pond is less than four miles long, and is mostly flat. On arrival I found the area to be quite touristy, but as we began to traverse the trail around the pond we were surrounded by nature, and stunning beauty. The perfect shaped rocks, gorgeous water, and the mountains, combined to provide a picturesque landscape. The day of this journey it was a bit foggy, which added a mystical feature to the photos. As per usual I took numerous photos of the boys on our adventure, and the stunning landscape. This was definitely a trip I will always treasure. It was one of the most gorgeous spots we have visited on our many years of adventures (Rating: 5)
April 19, 2020 – Androscoggin Swinging Bridge – Maine
Today, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge connecting Brunswick and Topsham, Maine. The Androscoggin Bridge is a pedestrian, suspension bridge crossing the Androscoggin River. It was built in 1892, and later rehabilitated in 2006.
I debated posting this blog, as it is a bit random. However, we had a day of Adventures in Maine, all of which I had blogged about previously, so why not document this picturesque bridge. I found the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge accidentally when driving, and was excited to locate such a unique bridge. The bridge was high above the rushing Androscoggin River, providing lovely views down stream. There were benches near the bridge to sit and relax. We soon began our journey across the bridge which was quite the wiggly and windy experience, at moments I even thought I could loose my balance. Wilma seemed to enjoy the walk but did seem slightly uneasy with this wobbly experience. I of course immediately thought about Shadow and his likely reluctance of this shaky bridge, which actually made me smile. After crossing this long an amazing bridge we checked out the other side, finding some trails, and beach-like areas, before crossing back to the other side.
It has been challenging, and quite sad heading out on walks, Adventures, and today, our first new Adventures without our sweet Shadow. Nevertheless we also find great peace in these times exercising, enjoying the moments, and exploring new places. It is nice to know we can continue to enjoy Adventures, although we wish Shadow was by our side, rolling around in the grass, and swimming in the seas. However, we will continue on, and savor all the memories we had with Shadow, and with Buster. I know it will get better with time, and I am glad we have so many of our past Adventures captured in photographs. So glad today to enjoy our Adventure to the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge (Rating: 3.5)
March 22, 2020 – Wolfe’s Neck Wood State Park – Maine
Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Wolfe’s Neck Wood State Park in Freeport, Maine. Wolfe’s Neck Wood State Park is an approximately 250 acre state park on a peninsula between the Casco Bay and the Harraseeket River. It contains various ecosystems, and is known for the local ospreys who nest on Googins Island. Wolfe’s Neck Wood State Park is open year around, and has an entrance fee. As expected the park is popular for: bird watching, walking, educational programs, and picnicking.
We had a spectacular Adventure to Wolfe’s Neck Wood State Park on a sunny winter day. I had read about this Park for some time and finally decided to make the trip. So off we headed with high expectations. I had researched the trails and printed a map so had a general idea of a plan, as I wanted to make sure we explored both the River and Bay sides of this peninsula Park.
We began our hike at the Harraseeket Trail, a 1.8 mile trail that begins at the parking lot. I was quite excited to begin our hike. The pathway was very clear, although I did not notice markers along the path, only when the trail intersected others. The colors were dull, and the air crisp. The more we walked the more inspired I became, finding various bridges, and soon spotting the bright blue River. We stopped to gaze out, the River quiet expanse. The trail was high above the River and pareled it for some time before veering away. The trail had some hills, lots of roots, rocks, and of course lovely River views. We almost had this Trail to ourselves, a peaceful oasis in the great outdoors.
After completing the Harraseeket Trail the Trail merged into the Casco Bay Trail, what I soon would learn to be quite popular. Just immediate to this merging we found the rocky shores of the Casco Bay, just gorgeous. There were wooden stairways and stone stairways at various locations leading to the water’s edge. We enjoyed relaxing on the rocks, Shadow enjoying the water, while Wilma balanced eloquently on the unusually shaped rocks, some formed in circular formation. The view of the Bay was beautiful. The farther we walked the more people we saw, but there still was enough space to find your own spot, in almost all areas. There were kiosks along this trail, and seating, even located across the Osprey nesting Island. The water was quite clear, and varied in tones, sometimes appearing aqua, and tropic.
The Casco Bay Trail soon led to the White Pines Trail, continuing the scenery as we had seen on the Casco Bay Trail. I believe it was on the White Pines Trail that we found a sandy beach to relax for a few, Wilma enjoying a quick dig, while Shadow wading in the water and dreaming of a longer leash. From there we then turned onto the North Trail, which looped around before returning to the end of the Casco Bay Trail. The North Trail was somewhat dull but had one look-out over the Casco Bay. I actually heard another visitor describing the North Trail as perfect for snow shoeing but overall a “boring” Trail.
We spent about two and a half hours exploring this magnificent park, mainly on the above trails, however, traversing parts of others along our walk. The farther we hiked the more impressed I became. The scenery was beautiful and diverse. In addition it was so nice to see the dogs almost all on leash, and owners being respectful of one another. We had a special day that I will always treasure. Wolfe’s Neck Park did not disappoint, and we definitely will be back again (Rating: 4.5).
March 22, 2020 – Babb’s Bridge – Maine
Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Babb’s Bridge which divides the towns of Gorham and Windham, Maine. The Babb’s covered Bridge was originally built in 1840, making it the oldest covered bridge in Maine. It later had to be rebuilt and also has undergone numerous repairs. The Babb’s Bridge traverses the Presumpscot River.
We had a brief visit to the Babb’s Bridge on a beautiful winter day. Although on a public road we arrived to find numerous private property signs making it unclear as to where we could wander. I decided to first drive through the bridge to take some photographs. The far side, which I believe to be the Gorham side, provided no public River across. Upon peering down the River I noted at least three rope swings, signs of a great summer day. I debated walking through but the bridge was dark underneath and the traffic speedy so I chose to drive back across.
On what I suspect was the Windham side, there was a beach-like area filled with a group of people fishing and enjoying the fresh air. We tranced around a bit and snapped some quick photographs. Fearing an accidental trespassing incident I decided to make it a short stop, although I guess often the case on a covered bridge Adventures. So glad we could visit the Babb’s Bridge today (Rating: 3.5).
Throwback Adventure – Edwards Harborside – Maine
I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Throwback Adventure”, and will plan on posting them every Thursday. These are journeys we have taken before I started the blog, but are well worth sharing. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!
In April 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I adventured to Edwards Harborside in York, Maine. In researching Edwards Harborside to create this blog I learned that it is a marina with several beach areas. However I was unclear on the exact title of the beach which was in front of the Edwards Harborside Inn, therefore not officially the Edwards Harborside Beach as I expected. Even without this official title I still decided to blog about this location, possibly a less known area for travelers.
We had a beach-filled Adventure to Edwards Harborside, one of our many stops that day. It was a sunny spring April day. I believe we found this location accidentally, parking after finding a sign for “Edwards Harborside”. The beach we found nearby was small and quiet. Shadow and Buster were energized by the beach, digging, wrestling, and romping! They always made me smile on our beach trips, as on on this Adventure to Edwards Harborside. We explored the entire beach, walking in the water, and checking out the rocky areas. Definitely a fun day of memories at Edward Harborside (Throwback blogs will not always be rated).
The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma 