I’ll admit it. The mosquitoes win. They may be small but they are relentless. It’s the reason we rarely hike during the spring. It’s just not worth it.
No matter how many layers of all natural insect repellent I put on, it’s just never enough. I know something more high-test with deet might do a better job but I’m not a fan so instead we mostly avoid the woods during these months. But now that summer is here, we’re heading out to the trails again which is a good thing. I did not move nearly enough this winter and am excited to get back into our hiking routine.
One of our first trips was up to the Carabasset Valley Trails. They have an extensive trail system and it was the perfect hike to ease our way back into things. While many of their trails are for bikers, there were still plenty of hiking options available. The trail we choose was mostly flat, wide and easy.
As we went around one bend, the trail opened onto a field covered in recently bloomed blue lupines. While it’s easy to spot these flowers throughout Maine this time of year, it doesn’t take away from their beauty. They always make me smile.
My other must have on a hike is water and I don’t mean the kind to drink although having plenty of fresh water for drinking is important too. My favorite trails are ones where you encounter and hike along lakes, streams, rivers or the ocean. This hike checked that box too as the trail we were on ran parallel to the river for a bit.
We only hiked about three miles before heading back to the car and onto The Bag and Kettle by Sugarloaf Mountain for lunch and some craft beer. We made the right call. As we arrived at the restaurant, the skies blackened and it started pouring. That’s the one water element I don’t like to encounter on our hikes.
| things to know | |
|---|---|
| Place | Carrabassett Valley |
| Address | Campbell Field, Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947 |
| Favorite ♥ | Lupines |
Weekends in Maine 
I always stop to take a photo of the Lupines every year too.
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They’re so beautiful. It really does usher in summers in Maine.
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Here too just north of you. cheers to Summer and Lupines.
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Hello, my name is Adam from ParagonTrails, and I’ve just discovered your website! Wonderful pictures, and I love the little creeks and rivers that you’ve captured! I hope to one day find my way to Maine from along the Appalachian Trail in a couple of years. Maybe I can capture some pictures as awesome as yours if I’m lucky! Anyways though, I’m looking forward to more posts in the future, and I’m going to check out the rest of the website! Have Fun and Happy Trails! 😀
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Beautiful pictures!
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