Science and Nature
Western Lakes/Mountain's nature and science centers help you discover the state's beauty
4 places to visit
Snow Falls Gorge
Off Route 26 West Paris, ME 04289 A great spot for family hiking, the centerpiece of which is Snow Falls. A bridge crosses the gorge, offering good scenic viewing. The area nearby has many mines, now abandoned, which offer mineral collectors the opportunity to collect mica, garnet, quartz, and tourmaline. Some are privately owned and require and entrance fee.
Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary
Highland Spring Road Lewiston, ME 04240 Environmental biologists and students of nature use this property -- a green oasis in Lewiston -- to study plants of the region. Passive recreation like hiking and nature viewing is welcome. - Trail Map (PDF)
Douglas Mountain Tower
98 Douglas Mountain Road Sebago, ME 04029 A climb to the top of this tower will afford you with exquisite views: Sebago Lake, Casco Bay and the city of Portland.
Maine Wildlife Park
56 Game Farm Road Gray, ME 04039 207-822-6460 The Maine Wildlife Park in Gray is a great place to view and learn more about wildlife. The 200-acre park has moose, black bear, lynx, mountain lions, wild turkeys, bald eagles, owls, a show fish pool and more on display. Offerings include a visitor center, fish hatchery, nature store, tree trial, game trail, wetlands trail, gardens, animal feeding, and story hour. Open mid-April through Veteran's Day