Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall: In the heart of Maine’s northern forests lies the scenic and silent Debouille Public Reserve far off the beaten path this 22,000 acre tract is a slice of Northwoods heaven. Hiking trails lead to a fire tower atop Debouille Mountain and from the summit the views of the surrounding ponds and hills are breathtaking. The word Debouille is French for rockslides which are common to the area. The southeastern portion of the park is where most of the campsites, trails, and boat launches are, and also holds the more rugged mountain terrain. There are plenty of scenic spots to camp, so if a site is occupied rest assured there are others nearby that likely are not. Wildlife is plentiful here with moose and dear sightings common along the water, hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating are the most popular activities here as well as snowmobiling in winter. This is a rugged and remote area accessable through the Northwoods gates for a small fee so come prepared with plenty of supplies, a smile and sense of adventure.
Tag: Summer
A.E. Howell Wildlife Conservation Center: Taking Care Of Nature
Summer, Fall: Located in the heart of North Amity in Aroostook County you can find one of the best 50 acre animal refuge centers in the state of Maine. This rehabilitation center and refuge has been in operation since 1981. Their goal is to rehabilitate some of nature’s most difficult cases and they work very closely with the states game wardens and other wildlife officials both here in Maine and Canada to do so.When you visit this spot, full of natural beauty and wildlife, you will want to make sure you bring your hiking shoes and picnic basket. There is a picnic and recreational area for children and adults. Guided tours are mandatory in order to preserve the natural balance between visitors and the wildlife. The Conservation Center is full of educational programs that encourage the practice of wildlife conservation, natural resource management and environmental protection. Not only is this a beautiful place to visit but, it is choke full of information and activities for all ages to enjoy.
Aroostook State Park: Maine’s First State Park
Summer: If you are planning a trip to the Northern Woods of Maine then a great starting point is Aroostook State Park. This state park is one of Maine’s first and totals over 800 acres of pristine land. The state park is where Quaggy Jo Mountain and Echo Lake are located and with wonderfully groomed hiking trails, crystal clear lakes to canoe and paddelboat in with rentals available, picnic sites, campsites and a beach to relax on. The state park is a great place to camp while exploring the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. This whole area is full of interconnecting lakes, ponds, rivers and streams that make their way through Northern Maine’s vast forest. The Allagash is a very popular spot for sportsman and a place known for it’s solace and refuge from our busy world. Northern Maine is the gateway into New Brunswick and Quebec and makes an excellent place to visit for those looking to “get away from it all”.
Northern Maine Fair: Over 150 Years Of Fun
Summer: The Northern Maine Fair began in 1851 and is still going strong today. If you are in the Aroostook county area than you should plan a trip to this historic fair located in Presque Isle. The fair is a host to local talent, artisans, caricaturist, jugglers and has great entertainment for the whole family. The midway always attracts the kids and runs from opening day on. A tour through the exhibition halls are always a treat. There you will find quilts, homemade pies, canned pickles, huge pumpkins and many hand knit items. Truck and tractor pulling, the Lumberjack Roundup, Demolition Derby, Draft Horse Show, harness racing it’s everything you would expect from a good old fashion hometown fair and it has been drawing people for over 150 years. The fair runs from the last week of July into the beginning of August.
Chasing Fireflies: A Summer Evening Of Fun
Summer: Chasing fireflies on a summer evening is one of kids favorite activities. At dusk, you can see these tiny creatures blinking their lights like little beacons in the night time sky. It doesn’t take much to catch them just a couple of hands and quick feet. Find an old canning jar, punch some nail holes in the top, line the bottom with grass and you have not made the perfect home for these unique bugs. After spending some time doingthis fun family activity the “prize” is well worth the effort. My children like to keep them in their room as little nightlights to ward away dark shadows. It’s all part of the fun and the memories that you will make are worth the effort.