The extensive network of trails at the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve headquarters at historic Laudholm Farm offers a chance to explore the diverse landscapes and ecosystems of south coastal Maine. There are three recommended routes that each highlight different aspects of the reserve and landscape.
Visitors following the Salt Marsh Loop will learn how rain and snowmelt move through a watershed and into an estuary, where fresh water mixes with salt water from the Gulf of Maine. The Forest Interpretive Trail provides an opportunity to find out how landscape vegetation shifts over time, succeeding from open space to mature forest, and how water and wildlife are influenced by that change. A walk along the length of Laudholm Beach to stand at the Little River mouth highlights barrier beaches which protect a mud flat supporting shellfish and shorebirds.
Trails are available year-round 7:00 am to sunset for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Please no pets or smoking.
Wells Reserve at Laudholm offers dozens of public guided activitives that utilize the trails year-round including nature walks, research demonstrations, and workshops. Make sure to check out the list of upcoming events available on the Wells Reserve at Laudholm website.
A small admission fee, which includes parking, is charged from Memorial Day weekend to Indigenous Peoples Day. Members of Laudholm Trust enjoy free admission all year with the exception of some special events. See details at trail manager links below.
Visit the Wells Reserve at Laudholm online for more information and a printable map or contact:
The public parking lot is located off of Skinner Mill Road in Wells. From US Route 1/ME Route 9 in Wells, follow Laudholm Farm Road a little less than half a mile to take the first road on the left, Skinner Mill Road. There will be signs for the Wells Reserve. The entrance will be in a tenth a mile on the right. A kiosk at the parking lot will direct you to the trails.
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