Saturday, July 31, 2010

Marsh Walk

Yesterday afternoon, we did something we have been meaning to do for the last few years but never got around to doing. We hiked the Fore River Sanctuary trail to Jewell Falls, Portland's only natural waterfall. The preserve encompasses 85 acres and along with the falls is the site of the former Cumberland and Oxford Canal. The two mile, round trip walk(a part of the Portland Trails, system of 30 multi-use trails around the city), took us along pathways and over bridges, where salt and freshwater marshes meet. It is a section of the city that I never explored in my youth or as an adult. I do really wonder how I missed it! On more than one occasion, we had to stop and remind ourselves that we were not in the North Maine Woods, but close to the heart of the state's largest city. It was quite a cool experience and a very green one!

http://www.trails.org/

9 comments:

  1. We would have loved to come hiking this with you. Thanks for taking us along at least with this shot. Had I known this existed when we lived there I'm sure we would have explored it.

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  2. I agree, Birdman, it was an enjoyable hike. Short, but sweet. The only way you knew you were still in the 'city' was that the din of the near but distant traffic, still permeated the area. It was a glorious, perfect temperature, breezy day. Loved it.

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  3. What a great resource! In Florida, there are a number of "natural" walkways built out over mangrove (or other) swamps. Your trail reminds me a lot of what I've found here, although I'd guess our trails are much warmer and more humid and filled with more deadly animals and insects!

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  4. I always like hiking on the walkways. You don't have to watch your feet as much and can enjoy the scenery! As for your question on my blog, I teach special needs children in kindergarten.

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  5. I like this picture! it seems that the trail will enter into a mysterious world. When you'll have passed the bridge, be ready to meet the Wizard of Oz or someone as strange..

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  6. What a good looking wooden walkway. Looks and sounds like a fun place to explore.

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  7. Looks like a very inviting trail.

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  8. This picture is so inviting, I wish I was walking there right now! I typed this out before seeing Kate said the same thing, so it must hold true. If I ever get it to that area, it's a must.

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  9. Love this. The eye draws you inand you want to walk it. I remember a trail rather like this near to Cairns airport in Queensland where you could explore the mangroves and it was fascinating.

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