Photo: Elizabeth Berry MacKenney

Maine is known for great hiking, and many enthusiasts flock to Katahdin and the Camden Hills. But there are some beautiful, lesser-known trails in the midcoast region. Lincoln county, for example, has some beautiful, easy trails that are open year-round — for free. When visiting Boothbay, Damariscotta, or Pemaquid, be sure to check out some of the trails there for gorgeous views and close encounters with flora and fauna.

Boothbay Region Land Trust

From easy to challenging, the Boothbay Region Land Trust has over 30 miles of trails all over the Boothbay Peninsula, and they even maintain trails on Damariscove and Indiantown Islands. Guided walks are often available year-round. A schedule of upcoming events can be found on the BRLT website, which also has maps and a trail guide. Cost: Free. www.bbrlt.org

Damariscotta River Association

Up the road a bit from Boothbay Harbor is Damariscotta. Winding down the peninsula from Damariscotta to South Bristol is the beautiful Damariscotta River. All along the river, you can find trails of various levels of difficulty, maintained by the Damariscotta River Association. If you have small children interested in taking a hike, and easy one to try is located at the River Association’s farm on the Belvedere Road in Damariscotta. The Dodge Point preserve and hiking area located on the River Road in Newcastle is very popular with both locals and visitors to the area. The website for the Damariscotta River Association contains a map of all their preserves and hiking areas. Cost: Free. www.damariscottariver.org

Photo: Activity Maine

Pemaquid Water Association

If you’re taking a drive to Pemaquid to see the beautiful Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, consider taking a quick hike on one of the many trails maintained by the Pemaquid Water Association. Eight preserves and five hiking trails along the Pemaquid River, from Nobleboro to Bristol, are maintained by the PWA. Detailed maps and descriptions of each hiking trail are avilable on the PWA website. Cost: Free.

Check out one, or all of the trails at these great locations. Each offers a unique view of the astounding natural beauty around Lincoln County. If you would like to bring a dog to any of the areas listed, check the websites first. Most allow canine companions, but it is recommended to keep your dog on a leash. And please clean up after your pet! www.pemaquidwatershed.org

— Text: Kate Kastelein