Today is National Walking Day! After a long winter of being stuck inside, spring is a great time to get outside and explore new places. Therefore, we double dog dare all pups to leash up their humans and take them for a walk! To help with your motivation, here are a few of our favorite places to visit.
Eastern Trail Kennebunk to Biddeford, Kennebunk, ME: The Kennebunk to Biddeford section of the Eastern Trail offers 6 miles (one way) of scenic easy walking. Winding along former sections of the Eastern Railroad, this trail takes you past wooded vistas, over rivers, and interestingly enough over the Maine Turnpike on a footbridge!
Old Eastern Marsh Trail, Salisbury, MA: Also known as the Salisbury Rail Trail and the Salisbury Marsh Trial, the Old Eastern Marsh Trail is 3.6 miles one way, and winds its way through woods, over US Route 1 on a footbridge, through the Great Marsh, to the Merrimack River. This paved walk is easy on the paws, and even includes a dog park (park at the second lot at the elementary school for quick access to the dog park).
Belfast Rail Trail, Belfast, ME: Also known as the Passy Rail Trail, because of the Passagassawaukeag River it follows. This is an easy 2.3 miles walk one way. The trail follows the former route of the Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad, along the way you will see historic landmarks including remnants of both the shipbuilding and train industries, cross over a picturesque trestle bridge, with scenic river views throughout the entire route.
Royal River Park, Yarmouth, ME: Follow the path along the river, lined with interpretive signs describing the mills that once depended on the three waterfalls at this former industrial site. Next wind your way through the woods to marvel at the hemlocks, some of which are estimated to be 200 years old! Or cross over the pedestrian bridge to continue your walk to see Cotton Mills Falls. This network of trails is approximately 2.6 miles, depending on how much you choose to explore.
Ravenswood Park, Gloucester, MA: With an extensive network of trails totaling over 10 miles, Ravenswood Park in Gloucester, Massachusetts, offers a variety of of dog friendly hiking options. Trails range from wide carriage paths that are perfect for a leisurely stroll, to more moderate hikes along the boulder strewn and wetlands trails. Points of interest include a scenic overlook with obstructed views of Gloucester Harbor and a boardwalk through through the Great Magnolia Swamp, to see native Sweetbay Magnolias.
As always, obey the leash rules and cleanup after your dog. For more places to explore, please visit our Dog Friendly Places recommendations. Happy National Walking Day!
