This blog post takes you through the Saco Heath Rainbow Boardwalk family friendly hike. Then have lobster (or any other fresh seafood) lunch at the Bait Shed. Consider also visiting the sandy and clean Pine Point Beach.
See TIPS below for Google Map links.
Bog Boardwalk
Saco Heath Preserve Bog Boardwalk
This often overlooked and interesting trail in Saco, Maine is quite geologically unique. The rainbow colored boardwalk lets you explore a glacial bog without hurting the sensitive vegetation growing there. It is a surreal, peaceful, and mostly flat hike. About 2 mile round trip, it’s out and back.
The beginning part of the trail was through woods. The path was pretty easy to follow but is not paved and there are many roots. Just when you think you are in wrong place (about a quarter mile in or so), you find the beginning of the boardwalk and bog.
We visited in early May and it was still an amazing trip. Next time I will go in June to see all the bog flowers.
Along the way are a few informational signs. They explain the formation of the bog. These signs also mention the bog’s rare wildlife, such as the Atlantic White Cedar and the Hassel’s Hairstreak butterfly.
The trail loops at the end in a small wooded area, a good place to stop for a snack/water break. Other options are along the boardwalk at the multiple small bench rest stops.
Bait Shed
After we finished the trail we wanted to grab some lunch. There are many options in the area. Being not too far from the ocean, we headed to the Bait Shed for dining on the deck. It was 10 miles (about 20 minutes) easy drive to the restaurant. it is located in Scarborough, Maine.
The Bait Shed has been owned and operated by the same family for over 100 years. This restaurant offers a large deck over the bay side, filled with small fishing boats and water birds.
We went early in the season and had no wait for a table. This place (like any waterfront restaurant) is very busy on weekends, so plan appropriately. On the way in, you can see the live lobsters in their tanks. Kids love watching them. It doesn’t get fresher than this!
Pine Point Beach
After your meal, consider a quick walk on Pine Point Beach, just a few blocks away (about 1/2 mile). It is a calmer, sandy beach and very pretty. Bring a bathing suit!
TIPS for your trip:
Because of this sensitive environment at the bog, dogs and bikes are not allowed. Only pedestrian traffic.
I was born with bad feet. Three kids didn’t help. I finally found sneakers that hug my foot but don’t hurt. I can wear them all day without bunion or toe pain! Try these out when they are on sale. The STEALTHFIT is my favorite (can put on without untying!!) Brooks Stealthfit Levitate Running Sneakers- women (#ad)
There are no restrooms at Saco Heath bog.
Keep kids out of the sensitive vegetation, you must stay on the Boardwalk.
Pine Point Beach has porta potties. Sometimes the snack stand is also open.
It can gets cold quickly as you get to closer to the ocean, bring a sweatshirt/jacket along. My kids LOVE these, we have them in every size. Soft, zip up, warm, lightweight, and hooded: Eddie Bauer zip up fuzzy sweatshirt (#ad)
Google Map Links:
Google Map to Saco Heath Bog Preserve and Boardwalk
Bait Shed – Scarborough, Maine
Pine Point Beach – Scarborough, Maine
Would love to hear from you about your trip to Saco Heath Preserve. Please email me at :
kit@astrayfish.com
Unless otherwise stated, all photos throughout this blog are my own and cannot be printed or distributed without my permission.
Astray Fish 
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