Penny Lake Preserve
A charming, accessible preserve offering short, easy trails through woodlands and pastures, perfect for a quick nature escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the light traffic noise
Penny Lake Preserve
Best Time
Beat the light traffic noise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, accessible preserve offering short, easy trails through woodlands and pastures, perfect for a quick nature escape.
"A wonderful walk for us when we were staying at the Flagship Inn."
Combine with Groceries
Conveniently located behind Hannaford supermarket. Shop then stroll! :shopping_cart:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails are mostly dry but have some tree roots. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Woodland Creek Walk
Main Trail
Meander through peaceful woodlands alongside a charming creek, enjoying the natural beauty.
Pastures & Old Apple Trees
Northwest Trail
Discover open pastures dotted with historic homestead apple trees, a glimpse into the past.
Wild Raspberry Patches
Northwest Trail
In season, find abundant wild raspberries along the northwest trail, a sweet treat for the adventurous.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quick Nature Escape
Trail Variety & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Groceries
Conveniently located behind Hannaford supermarket. Shop then stroll! :shopping_cart:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails are mostly dry but have some tree roots. :athletic_shoe:
Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on this beautiful BRLT trail. :dog:
Listen for Traffic
Nearby road noise can be noticeable. Seek quieter trails if silence is key. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Groceries
Conveniently located behind Hannaford supermarket. Shop then stroll! :shopping_cart:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails are mostly dry but have some tree roots. :athletic_shoe:
Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on this beautiful BRLT trail. :dog:
Listen for Traffic
Nearby road noise can be noticeable. Seek quieter trails if silence is key. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Penny Lake Preserve to be a pleasant, easily accessible spot for a short, easy hike. Its convenience, especially its proximity to a grocery store, is frequently highlighted. While appreciated for its simplicity and natural charm, some note that nearby traffic noise can detract from the tranquility.
"Nice little area for a short hike. Very easy, 1 main trail down the middle, 2 trails flanking either side, both well marked. If you are in the area and looking for a short hike you might like this. Grab a snack at the grocery store."
Patrick Caraher
"A wonderful walk for us when we were staying at the Flagship Inn. Some woodland, a lovely creek and pastures with old homestead apple trees. Also lots of wild raspberries on the Northwest part of the trail that leads to the rd."
Betsy Perkins
"Quick hike through a small preserve. 4 stars because of the nearby traffic noise. There are many quieter hiking trails in Maine."
Dale Pokorski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Penny Lake Preserve is conveniently located right behind the Hannaford supermarket on Route 27. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available near the supermarket.
Yes, it's very easy to find as it's situated directly behind a prominent supermarket on a main route. Look for signage for the Boothbay Region Land Trust trails.
If you are staying nearby, it might be walkable, but it's primarily accessed by car due to its location on Route 27. Check local maps for pedestrian access points.
Parking is available at the adjacent Hannaford supermarket. You can park there and then access the trailheads.
Information on public transportation directly to Penny Lake Preserve is limited. It's best to check local transit schedules for routes that might pass near the Hannaford supermarket.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Penny Lake Preserve is a public land trust trail and does not require tickets or an admission fee. Entry is free for all visitors.
As an outdoor preserve, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific posted opening or closing times.
Yes, Penny Lake Preserve is open year-round for visitors to enjoy its trails.
There are no fees to enter or hike at Penny Lake Preserve. It's a free public amenity managed by the Boothbay Region Land Trust.
Guided tours are not typically offered at Penny Lake Preserve. It's designed for self-guided exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main trail is a well-marked, easy path that winds through woodlands and alongside a creek. It's about a mile long, with options to extend your walk on flanking trails.
Absolutely! It's perfect for a quick, easy hike. The main loop is short, making it ideal for a brief nature escape.
Yes, the trails are well-marked with color-coded markers on the trees, making navigation straightforward.
Yes, Penny Lake Preserve is dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash.
You'll find a mix of woodlands, a lovely creek, and open pastures with old homestead apple trees. Wild raspberries are also present in season.
📸 📸 Photography
The creek area offers lovely shots with dappled sunlight through the trees. The open pastures with the old apple trees also provide picturesque scenes, especially in autumn.
Yes, it's a great spot for casual nature photography, with opportunities to capture woodland scenes, creek views, and potentially wildlife.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for photography, especially in the wooded areas.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the Boothbay Region Land Trust for any specific regulations regarding drone operation.
The old homestead apple trees in the pastures are a unique visual element. The creek itself also provides a scenic backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a small snack, perhaps picked up from the nearby grocery store, to enjoy during your visit. The short loop means you won't have to worry about kids getting tired on a long trek. It's an ideal destination for a quick nature walk that won't disrupt nap schedules or require extensive planning.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To maximize your visit and save money, take advantage of the preserve's prime location. Grab affordable snacks or picnic supplies from the adjacent Hannaford supermarket before or after your walk. This allows you to combine a beautiful nature experience with essential errands, making it a very cost-effective outing.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to always keep your dog on a leash to ensure the safety and comfort of other visitors and to protect the preserve's natural environment. It's a great place to let your dog stretch their legs and enjoy some fresh air while you take in the scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
The preserve is managed by the Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT), which focuses on preserving and protecting the natural beauty of the area. This commitment is evident in the upkeep and accessibility of the trails. Visitors often appreciate the ease with which they can combine a refreshing hike with other nearby activities, such as grocery shopping at the adjacent Hannaford supermarket. This convenience makes Penny Lake Preserve a practical choice for a quick nature break.
While the preserve offers a peaceful escape, it's worth noting that due to its location along Route 27, some ambient traffic noise can be heard. For visitors prioritizing absolute tranquility, other, more secluded hiking trails in Maine might be a better fit. However, for a convenient, accessible, and enjoyable short hike, Penny Lake Preserve is a delightful option.
Nature and Wildlife
During the summer months, the northwest section of the trail becomes a delightful spot for foraging wild raspberries. These natural berry patches offer a sweet reward for those who visit at the right time. The creek also adds to the preserve's natural appeal, providing a soothing auditory backdrop and a habitat for small aquatic life. While not a primary destination for extensive wildlife viewing, the preserve's natural setting can attract common local birds and small mammals.
The Boothbay Region Land Trust actively works to maintain these natural areas, ensuring they remain accessible and enjoyable for the public. The preserve's manageable size makes it ideal for a leisurely exploration where one can appreciate the simple beauty of the Maine landscape without a strenuous trek.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit