Hiking in Maine doesn’t have to mean strapping on your boots for rough and tough terrain. There are a number of trails that are meant for leisurely walks, providing great nature education along the way. And, if you do these enough, you’ll be summitting Katahdin in no time! This easy boardwalk trail in Maine is one of our favorite ways to relax and recharge without the heavy boots and gear.
The Wells Reserve at Laudholm offers a wonderful day of nature and education through the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve.
Wildflower01945 / TripAdvisor
Beauty starts from the parking lot where you’ll find a view of the farmhouse.
Josh T / TripAdvisor
The historic farmhouse is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Andrea M / TripAdvisor
Before you embark on your walk on the trail, take in the educational exhibits in the museum.
Wildflower01945 / TripAdvisor
There are a number of trails within the reserve, but take the Laird-Norton Trail and the Barrier Beach Trail for the boardwalk leading to the beach.
Rick Gagne / Alltrails.org
The combination of the two trails makes up a 2.3 mile loop offering views of wildlife and education about the estuary system.
Rick Gagne / Alltrails.org
The trail is great for all skill levels, allowing for full immersion in a variety of ecological systems.
Stephanie H / TripAdvisor
The boardwalk on the Laird-Norton trail is flat and easy to maneuver.
Wildflower01945 / TripAdvisor
And there a places to stop and relax to take in the view.
labyrinthpath / TripAdvisor
gbruels / TripAdvisor
As the trail continues, you’ll come closer and closer to wetlands.
MariemilieG82 / TripAdvisor
Wide open areas afford views across the estuary and marsh towards the beach.
Wildflower01945 / TripAdvisor
Eventually, the trail makes its way to the coast.
MariemilieG82 / TripAdvisor
Spend some time here to enjoy the sights and sounds of what will probably be a nearly deserted beach.
Josh T / TripAdvisor
Josh T / TripAdvisor
Once you return, views of the Laudholm Farm are expansive.
gl0baltr0tter / TripAdvisor
And if you time things right, you’ll be met with a quintessential Maine sun setting over the sculptures that sit throughout the property.
gl0baltr0tter / TripAdvisor
The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve is located in the Wells Reserve at Laudholm. You can find it at 342 Laudholm Farm Rd., Wells. You can call them on 207-646-1555. Or, check them out online to learn about their history and upcoming events.
Wildflower01945 / TripAdvisor
Josh T / TripAdvisor
Andrea M / TripAdvisor
Rick Gagne / Alltrails.org
Stephanie H / TripAdvisor
labyrinthpath / TripAdvisor
gbruels / TripAdvisor
MariemilieG82 / TripAdvisor
gl0baltr0tter / TripAdvisor
For more ways to enjoy the outdoors in a simple way, check out these 10 easy hikes to take this spring in Maine.
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