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It is January in Maine, which means the snow is coming down and staying for a while. While relaxing at home and staying cozy with a hot cup of tea can be nice, winter is also a time to adventure. Here is a look into my adventure hiking Mackworth Island State Park in winter!
Mackworth Island State Park
Winter hiking is one of my favorite activities, whether I am taking a short walk along the ocean or a more advanced snowshoe hike.
Getting outside and feeling the sun on a cold winter day is one of the best feelings during the short winter days.
Maine has over 32 state parks, making the state a fantastic winter playground.
One of the most beautiful places to snowshoe is Mackworth Island State Park, which is in Falmouth.
A state park accessible by bridge, just 10 minutes north of downtown Portland.
Winter at Mackworth Island State Park
The park is known for its scenic walking trails that wind through forests and coastline, but the state park is also historic.
The state of Maine acquired Mackworth Island in 1943, and it was designated as a state park.
The establishment of Mackworth Island State Park allowed for the preservation of the natural beauty of the island while providing recreational opportunities for the public.
You can spend your whole day hiking here despite its short trails. Plenty of designated picnic areas within the park allow visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
You can also lay a blanket at one beach stop-off for an oceanside picnic.
Mackworth Island School for the Deaf
The most notable historical feature on Mackworth Island revolves around the Mackworth Island School for the Deaf, founded in 1874 by Thomas H. Haskell and his wife, Eliza G. Haskell.
Initially recognized as the Maine School for the Deaf, it later underwent a renaming process to honor its founder.
The school was established to educate and support deaf and hard-of-hearing students.
Over the years, the school has played a significant role in educating and empowering individuals with hearing impairments.
The school is in a historic building and has been a part of the island’s history since the early 20th century.
You can see it from a distance during your hike along the island.
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Winter Hiking the Mackworth Island Trail
The main trail on the island is the Mackworth Island Trail, which takes visitors on a loop around the island’s perimeter.
You can take in the views of Casco Bay as you make your way through a thick forest on the edge of the cliffy drop-offs near the water.
The hike spans 1.4 miles, offering a short and sweet adventure suitable for most hikers. It forms a loop around the entire island, with snow covering the trail during winter, making snowshoes an excellent companion. If the snow is packed down sufficiently, you can traverse it without them.
You may also see some cross-country skiers getting their workout in on the trail. It is a very peaceful route to take in the snow; not only is it captivating to look at, but the light sound of the water will surround you the entire time.
The Fairy Village
The island is also home to fairies! You can visit the fairy village and even help them build a home. The village is made up of tiny fairy homes hidden in a specific area in the forest.
You can help build a shelter for the fairies by using natural materials like rocks, sticks, and shells.
The fairies will be very grateful that you did! Who knows, you may even see one during your winter hike.
How Much Does It Cost To Visit Mackworth Island?
There is only a small fee to visit Mackworth Island.
Adult Maine Resident: $3.00, Adult Non Resident: $4.00, Senior Non Resident: $1.00. It is a small price to pay to enjoy this peaceful park.
Is Mackworth Island State Park on our winter hiking list?
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