The CBCA blends habitat and recreation
This OLT project features a restored wetland that showed almost immediate results. Insects, reptiles and many birds’ species can be found in this peaceful landscape. In spring, trail sections can be closed for heron nesting, and there are detour trails to protect the sites. When the young herons have fledged, then the trail is re-opened for people to view plants, insects and reptiles that have their home here. Bring a camera or binoculars!
In winter, some trails in the CBCA are open to skiing, snowshoeing, and competitive events with the Penobscot Valley Ski Club. The Ski Club grooms about 8 miles for classic Nordic and skate-skiing enjoyment. Ski races for all ages are held in January and February, depending on snow conditions. Check pvskiclub.org for details. Winter trails are also good places to observe deer and snowshoe hare tracks. And ice-skaters enjoy the ponds, weather permitting. Who knows what you could discover?
Directions and trail maps can found at kiosks in the area, plus online at mainetrailfinder.com, oronolandtrust.org and bangorlandtrust.org. Activities allowed: walking, biking, horseback riding, dog walking, bird watching, skiing and snowshoeing. No motorized vehicles are permitted except for maintenance crews. Number 1 class e-bikes are permitted. After grooming begins in the winter, only skiing is permitted on groomed trails. Snowshoeing and biking are allowed on bicycle trails. Covid-19 restrictions are in effect as of this writing, check for local updates.
Article and photos by Linda Swackhamer, proud member of the Orono Land Trust.