Consisting of a network of trails that is 2.6 miles, the Heart of Poland Conservation Area is an easy to moderate dog friendly hike. Located in Poland, Maine, this town owned property takes you along a wooded path, with vernal pools, interesting rock formations including a cave, past historic stone walls, to an old quarry, and has a stand of White Oak trees which were very valuable during the colonial ship building days. The trails are well marked, and easy to follow. And if you look closely, you may find a few painted stones with positive messages along the way!

On the day we visited, we had hoped to hike the Huntress Trail to the historic quarry. However just like our attempt to see the quarry at Peabody-Fitch Woods in Bridgton, Mother Nature had other plans. We got rained out shortly after starting our hike. Luckily the Huntress Trail meets up with the Ricker Trail, so rather than doing an in and out hike as intended, we did a quick loop instead. Making for a short but interesting hike through the woods.

Dogs are allowed on-leash at the Heart of Poland Conservation Area. Please be respectful of the wildlife that call this area home, and always clean up after your pet. The trail network can be accessed behind the Ricker Memorial Library, located at 1211 Maine Street (Route 26) in Poland. Parking is available behind the library, and the trail begins at a kiosk.

After studying the trail map at the kiosk…

…we followed the red blaze markers for the Huntress Trail up the hill.

But shortly after that we could hear the rain starting.

Despite being protected by the forest canopy, we decided to cut our hike short and headed back on the Ricker Trail, following the yellow blaze markers.

Good thing too, because it was a torrential downpour by the time we reached our car! I wonder why Mom didn’t take a photo of that?