Orono Bog Walk
Bangor, ME
A boardwalk that runs for 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) along the edge of Bangor City Forest, the Orono Bog Walk guides visitors through forested wetlands to reach the star attraction: a peat bog and its fascinating surrounding habitat. Along the way you’ll see a diverse array of flora and fauna, plus placards offering insight into the area’s natural environment, plants, birds, and animals.
The basics
A designated National Natural Landmark, the Orono Bog Walk is a wonderful place for a short walk. The route is suitable for all abilities and typically takes around 1–2 hours, depending on how leisurely your pace is, if you stop to take photographs, and whether you’re observing wildlife on the way. The walk is particularly popular with birdwatchers; species to spot include wild turkeys, a variety of warblers, kingfishers, and woodpeckers. Along the way, you’ll find benches to stop for a rest and enjoy the surroundings.
Things to know before you go
The boardwalk is accessible to wheelchairs. Parking can be arranged closer to the walk entrance for wheelchair users by calling ahead at least a week before your visit—the phone number can be found on the bog website. Do not touch or take any plants, flowers, or other natural resources. Do not step off the boardwalk or interact with the bog beyond observing it. Dogs, bikes, and smoking are prohibited. There are no restrooms along the boardwalk, which might be challenging if walking with young children.
How to get there
The Orono Bog Walk is located off Tripp Drive in Orono. Travelling by car is the easiest option: take Interstate 95 to exit 191 (Kelly Road), turn right to reach Stillwater Avenue, then take a left and drive for 2 miles to Tripp Drive. There’s a City Forest car park on Tripp Drive, from where there’s signs directing you to the start of the boardwalk.
When to get there
The Orono Bog Walk has seasonal opening times and is closed through winter, usually from December until May. From May, it typically opens around 7am through to late afternoon, although hours are shorter from September to November. The walk’s website and social media pages list the latest opening times, which can change due to inclement weather. A great time to arrive is early in the morning on a weekday, when visitor levels tend to be lowest.
Go beyond the boardwalk in the Bangor City Forest
Within the adjacent Bangor City Forest, you’ll find 9 miles of trails across 680 acres (275 hectares). A year-round destination with options for all seasons, the summer months are popular for cycling and hiking, while in winter you can partake in snowshoeing, sledding, and cross country skiing. Trails vary in length and are suitable for all abilities.
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