Gardens Aglow + Perfect Winter Hikes in Boothbay
Gardens Aglow— Maine Coastal Botanical Gardens
Boothbay, Maine
Winter in Boothbay is nothing short of magical, and nowhere is this more evident than at Gardens Aglow, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens’ annual light show. Known for its dazzling display of over 750,000 lights, Gardens Aglow transforms the gardens into a winter wonderland, perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking to revel in holiday cheer. Open mid-November through December, the event also boasts a rich history; the gardens themselves were founded in 2007 and have grown into one of the largest botanical gardens in the country. Parking is ample, but snagging tickets early online is a must for this popular event.
Why not make a weekend of it? Boothbay offers cozy winter dining options like Ports of Italy, where hearty Italian dishes will warm you up, or Boothbay Craft Brewery, which pairs local brews with comfort food favorites. For accommodations,
But the magic of Boothbay doesn’t stop with lights and food. Pairing a hike with Gardens Aglow is the perfect way to make the most of your trip. Boothbay’s trail system offers scenic, accessible winter hikes where you’ll encounter peaceful forests, tidal estuaries, and perhaps even the quiet rustle of wildlife preparing for winter. Let’s dive into three must-visit trails in the area.
And let’s give a HUGE shoutout to Boothbay Region Land Trust, the reason that all of these places are available to explore. Scroll to the very end to see them all on one map!
Not from around here? Consider staying at the Tugboat Inn, with its stunning harbor views conveniently located near downtown Boothbay Harbor.
1. Porter Preserve: A Trail with Breathtaking Coastal Views
A short yet rewarding hike with sweeping views of the Sheepscot River and hidden gems like historic stone walls.
Overview of the Hike
Located on Barters Island, Porter Preserve is a 1-mile loop that showcases Boothbay’s coastal beauty. As you meander through pine-scented forests, you’ll encounter moss-covered boulders and century-old stone walls that hint at the region’s agricultural past. The trail opens up to expansive views of the Sheepscot River, where the light dances on the water, even on overcast days.
Insider Tips
This hike is best timed for low tide to explore the tidal shoreline along the trail. Keep your eyes peeled for wintering sea ducks like buffleheads and mergansers bobbing in the river. The preserve’s quietude is ideal for spotting red squirrels darting through the evergreens or, if you’re lucky, a bald eagle soaring overhead. Be sure to dress in layers, as the coastal winds can be brisk.
Location: Boothbay
Distance: 0.9 miles (Loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Trailkeeper: Boothbay Region Land Trust
2. Ovens Mouth Preserve: A Tidal Treasure Trove
A dynamic trail that offers ever-changing scenery with tidal rivers, salt marshes, and forested ridges.
Overview of the Hike
The Ovens Mouth West and East Trail, a 3.5-mile loop, feels like a journey through multiple ecosystems in one hike. The path winds through rugged forest terrain, where granite outcroppings contrast with the lush green of hemlock trees. As you ascend gentle ridges, panoramic views of the Back River emerge, and wooden footbridges lead you over tidal streams teeming with life.
Insider Tips
Plan your hike around the tidal schedule to witness the dramatic ebb and flow of the water. At high tide, the tidal estuaries are mirror-like, reflecting the surrounding trees, while low tide reveals mudflats buzzing with the activity of foraging shorebirds. Look out for patches of winterberry shrubs, their bright red berries a splash of color against the winter landscape.
Location: Boothbay
Distance: 3.5 miles (Loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Trailkeeper: Boothbay Region Land Trust
3. Oak Point Farm: A Hidden Gem for Wildlife Lovers
A serene hike perfect for birdwatchers and history buffs, with a waterfront backdrop that’s as tranquil as it gets.
Overview of the Hike
The loop trail at Oak Point Farm is just over a mile but packs in an impressive mix of scenery. Passing through open meadows and into quiet woodlands, the trail hugs the shore of Hodgdon Cove. There’s a bench along the way where you can pause to watch wintering loons glide gracefully through the water, their mournful calls echoing in the crisp air.
Insider Tips
The farm’s trails are a haven for spotting wildlife in winter, from white-tailed deer browsing in the underbrush to woodpeckers tapping out rhythms on birch trees. Stop by the historic farmhouse to learn about the property’s origins, and bring a thermos of hot cocoa to enjoy at one of the picturesque picnic tables. Snowshoes or microspikes may be handy after a fresh snowfall.
Location: Boothbay
Distance: 1.1 miles (Loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Trailkeeper: Boothbay Region Land Trust
Make Boothbay Your Winter Escape
Boothbay in winter is a dream destination, and pairing a visit to Gardens Aglow with a hike is the perfect way to experience its seasonal charm. From Porter’s Preserve’s coastal beauty to Oven’s Mouth’s tidal wonders and Oak Point Farm’s serene wildlife haven, these trails offer something for every adventurer.
As always, share this list with your favorite hiking buddy, pack your warmest layers, and head to Boothbay for a weekend of holiday lights and natural wonders. You won’t regret it!
See you out there,
Maine Hikes team
