Vaughan Woods and Historic Homestead in Hallowell, Maine consists of approximately 3 miles of trails perfect for a variety of adventures from a leisurely dog walk, to steeper terrain for more adventurous pups. This property was owned by the Vaughan family for seven generations since the 1700s, and used for a variety of purposes from agricultural to industrial. However, it wasn’t until the early 1900s when the carriage roads and the picturesque stone bridges were added, making it the scenic walk through the woods and meadows that we enjoy today. In fact, the magical feel of the location led locals to give it the nickname of “Hobbitland,” a reference to J.R.R.Tolkien’s novel, The Hobbit: There and Back Again. We can understand why, because you will want to go back again after exploring the Vaughan Woods and Historic Homestead.

On the day we visited, we parked at the Farmingdale trailhead, located behind the Hall-Dale high school, turned left onto the Corniche Trail Loop, and followed this former carriage road through the woods…

…to the classic stone Driving Bridge constructed in 1909…

…with scenic waterfall created by an old dam. We were told by a very enthusiastic 4 year old, that this bridge is perfect for playing the Winnie-the-Pooh game of Poohsticks, in which players drop pinecones off one side of the bridge and rush to the other side to watch them float past in the current.

From there you have many choices for your adventure. You could continue on the Corniche Trail Loop, across the field. Or go straight and follow Corniche Trail to the grounds of the Vaughan Homestead built in 1794. Although to be honest, we’re not sure if dogs are allowed on the grounds of the homestead. We found conflicting information, including the grounds being closed to the public unless a program is being offered that day. Or if you’re feeling really adventurous, leave the easy carriage trail behind and venture down the much steeper Brook Trail. That’s exactly what we did!

Down steep steps and across a wooden bridge that hugs the ravine…

…to reach the High Arch Bridge, built in 1930.

Then we crossed the bridge, to get a better look at the bridge from the rocky outcropping below.

From there we went up more steep stairs to follow the Rice Pines Trail. But we didn’t get very far. Our one complaint about Vaughan Woods is that the trails are not well marked.

However, not to be deterred we traced our steps back to the Lower Rice Pines Trail, crossed the pasture, and enjoyed one last look at the bridge before heading back to our car.

Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails at Vaughan Woods, and waste must be carried out. Parking is available at Hall-Dale High School in Farmingdale, behind the school by the tennis courts, but only when school is not in session. There is also limited parking available at the Vaughan Homestead on Litchfield Road in Hallowell. Please note Vaughan Woods and Historic Homestead in Hallowell, Maine is NOT the same as Vaughan Woods State Park in South Berwick, Maine. For trail map, history of the Vaughan family and property, events, and visitor information, please visit VaughanHomestead.org.