Hike Local, Pick Local: Trails and Orchards to Enjoy Together
Brackett’s Orchard & Sawyer Mountain Highlands - Limington, Maine
Where: The orchard is located at 32 Staples Rd in Limington, which is less than 10 minutes from the Sawyer Mountain Trailhead
Why we love this orchard: The views from Brackett’s are some of the best of any orchard in Maine. Their trees are loaded with apples and they offer fun activities for the whole family (apple slingshots, apple cannons, a train for kids). They also offer cider and donuts, and have rotating food options, such as Wood Fired Pizza or visiting food trucks.
Why we love this hike: This 4-mile loop provides a steady climb with rewarding views at the top. Although it’s not an open summit, there is a great viewpoint- and even a picnic table at the top.
Five Fields Farm & Bald Pate Mountain Preserve - Bridgton
Where: The orchard is located on S Bridgton Rd in Bridgton and is less than a minute drive from the Bald Pate Preserve parking lot.
Why we love this orchard: the views from this orchard are excellent, making it a scenic spot to bring the whole family. There are also lots of apples, pumpkins all for sale in the farm store.
Why we love this hike: The trails at Bald Pate are very well maintained and have multiple viewpoints. There are different loops you can do depending on how far you want to hike making it a great choice for kids and families! (blog post linked here for more photos and information!)
Orchard Ridge Farm & Mountain Division Trail - Gorham, Maine
Where: the orchard is located at 236 Sebago Lake Rd in Gorham and access to the trail can be found just up Sebago Lake Road from the orchard.
Why we love this orchard: Orchard Ridge is a great spot to bring the family. There are farm animals to visit with and a playground, along with a farm store that serves excellent food. I highly recommend their breakfast sandwiches and vanilla lattes!
Why we love this walk: This paved trail is great for strollers, bikes, scooters, etc. From Orchard Ridge, you can walk down the street and hop on the trail. Heading left on the trail will take you towards the Otter Pond trails and right will take you towards Shaw Park and the Windham section of the trail.
Check out this blog post for more trail information on this combination!
