We finally got a bright and sunny spring day! However, before we hit the road for Asa’s world Tour of Maine, my new manager Llily Llama wanted us to head to Range Pond State Park in Poland, Maine to rehearse. Alright, so I know what you’re thinking, “you’ve already been to Poland, Maine on your world tour of Maine.” This is true. So I think this trip was more for Llily Llama to learn the ropes as tour manager than for me to rehearse being a rock star, but we still had fun! Well truth be told, Llily Llama had a little too much fun.
Range Pond State Park offers over two miles of trails, including a rail trail. You know from previous posts, we love rail trails because they are easy on the paws, and the Railbed Trail is exactly that, with its wide, gravel and dirt packed surface, and cool shade trees. The Old Camp Trail also makes for a leisurely walk. For those looking for a little more challenge, there are the easy to moderate Old Fields Trail and Brook Trail. You can find the trail head for Brook Trail in the small dirt parking area opposite the main entrance. All other trails are accessed from the main parking area.
However, before heading out to Range Pond State Park, you should know that NO DOGS are allowed on any of the sandy beaches along the shore of this beautiful lake, between April 1st and September 30th. Dogs can hike! Dogs can enjoy the many picnic nooks! But don’t go on the beach! This is where things got a little uncomfortable between me and Llily Llama. The signs clearly state “no dogs” and “no pets” on the beach.
Yet Llily Llama argued that she is a “tour manager,” not a pet, and boldly walked onto the beach to sun herself.
I could just hear Angel Chuck Billy growling “I told you so!” in my ear warning that she is a rule breaker. You may recall that the past two years, Llily Llama has staged a protest on our local beach due to their rule of “No llamas on the beach.” I nervously watched her from the good boy tree line / picnic area where dogs are allowed.
After that embarrassing public kerfuffle, we continued on our walk, and found plenty of scenic spots that dogs are allowed to enjoy the view.
In summary dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails and picnic areas at this popular state park. But please don’t be like Llily Llama and break the no pets on the beach rule between April 1st and September 30th! There is an entrance fee to enjoy this state park which is open year round. Parking is available at 26 State Park Road in Poland, Maine. Please note that the trails are frequented by horses and bikes too. Also this park is very popular, so please have an alternative plan if you should arrive and it is at capacity.
