Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
The refuge lies along 50 miles of coastline in York and Cumberland counties and consists of eleven divisions between Kittery and Cape Elizabeth. Currently the refuge covers 5,400 acres along the Maine coast and will eventually be about 14,600 acres when land acquisition is complete. “The proximity of the refuge to the coast and its location between the eastern deciduous forest and the boreal forest creates a composition of plants and animals not found elsewhere in Maine. Major habitat types present on the refuge include forested upland, barrier beach/dune, coastal meadows, tidal salt marsh, and the distinctive rocky coast.”
Here is the trail guide. Here is their map and brochure and the website. Phone (207) 646-9226.
The Timber Point trail is a 1.4 mile accessible loop that “takes visitors past fringing salt marshes, cattail marshes, mixed deciduous forest, mudflats, shrublands, and rocky shores.” Trail map.
The Carson Trail in Wells, is a “one-mile loop that winds along Branch Brook and the Merriland River with 11 interpretive stations en route. The trail is accessible throughout, and dogs on leash are welcome. ” See an article written by Carey Kisch for more information.