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Maine: A Guide to the State Parks, National Parks & Historic Sites
Maine: A Guide to the State Parks, National Parks & Historic Sites
Maine: A Guide to the State Parks, National Parks & Historic Sites
Ebook107 pages40 minutes

Maine: A Guide to the State Parks, National Parks & Historic Sites

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Take a walk in the park. Or explore a forest, gorge, campground, even a historic site. Spend a week or a weekend. Go biking, hiking, fishing, boating, hunting or cross-country skiing. Or just relax and enjoy the most beautiful scenery in the Northeast! Th
LanguageEnglish
Release dateDec 17, 2010
ISBN9781588439864
Maine: A Guide to the State Parks, National Parks & Historic Sites

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    Book preview

    Maine - Barbara Sinotte

    Publishing

    A Word About Hiking...

    Hiking is by far the most popular activity in state and national parks. Most of the trails are clearly marked. Off-trail travel (commonly referred to as bushwhacking) is practiced by the more adventurous hikers – especially in the less-populated areas.

    Trails in many state parks have been rated by taking into consideration the length of the hike and the degree of difficulty. If you are not sure which trails are appropriate for you and your family, talk to a park ranger. If you do not exercise regularly, start on beginner trails and increase your distances gradually. Trail maps are usually available either at the trail head or at the ranger station.

    While trail signs vary widely, there are a few common markings that everyone should be familiar with. Periodic paint blazes on trees or rocks are clearly the most popular indication of a trail. Plastic markers are often nailed to trees or metal signs or attached to their own wooden posts. Where there are no trees, trails are often marked with piles of rocks.

    Watch for trail markers and make a habit of looking for them – for your own safety and the safety of those hiking with you. It does not take away from the enjoyment of hiking and will soon become just another natural thing to do.

    If you want to go bushwhacking, be careful. Make your first attempts in open areas with limited undergrowth – such as a desert area where the terrain is a little easier to tackle. Bushwhacking through areas of dense vegetation is for the more experienced hiker and should only be attempted with map, water, and compass in hand.

    Whether you are bushwhacking or following marked trails, set a comfortable pace for yourself. You are not in a race and can better take in the surroundings if you don’t rush your excursion. Attempting to go too fast can ruin all the fun and burn you out before you are half-way through your hike. Stumbling or tripping is a clear sign that you may indeed need to slow down.

    Remember to take frequent rest stops. Don’t wait for fatigue to tell you it’s time to slow down. A 10- to 15-minute stop every hour or so is a good idea when you begin. After a while, you will know what is best for you.

    Don’t speed over the rough areas of a trail. Watch out for tree roots and old logs that may be damp and slippery. If you are not sure of your footing, it is wise to crouch just a bit, lowering your center of gravity to reduce the  likelihood of falling. Steep trails have caused many hikers to loose their balance and take a tumble. Descending tends to be more hazardous than ascending and requires a little more attention. Hold onto small trees or rocks. When in doubt, sitting and easing your way down on your rear might be the way to go.

    It is important to choose a trail that is comfortable for everyone. Younger children should be introduced to hiking with short walks. It is more fun and educational if they can be involved in planning the hike.

    Checklist for a Day of Hiking

    Hiking boots

    Day pack

    Water bottle

    Waterproof poncho

    Extra sweater

    Snack foods

    Toilet paper

    Plastic litter bag

    2 pairs of hiking socks

    Liner socks

    Long pants

    Long-sleeved shirt

    Shell parka or windbreaker

    In summer you should include:

    T-shirt

    Shorts

    Extra water

    Bug repellant

    Sunscreen or lotion

    Sun hat

    In cool or cold weather add:

    Additional layers

    Cap or hat

    Thermal underwear

    When hiking without a

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