Getting outside in Maine is great no matter what the season and there are so many wonderful places to do it. We love coastal walks, but the wind can sometimes be challenging. Lakes are great, but these trails are often crowded and fussy since they’re so well-known. That’s why we love the trails located slightly off-the-beaten-path. Like this one!

Shepard’s Farm Preserve in Norway (Maine, that is!) offers a peaceful retreat into the forest.

Meg Oneill / alltrails.com

The area is a mix of former pastureland and managed woodlands. It sits atop Crockett Ridge and allows for views of the Paris hills and of Streaked Mountain.

Summer Rain / alltrails.com

The are many trails here to explore and each one is relatively short and flat. The elevation gain here is minimal which means little legs and those new to hiking will be just fine.

Meg Oneill / alltrails.com

And during the spring and summer, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery. Whichever trail you choose, you’ll be whisked away from your everyday life to enjoy the quiet that only nature can provide.

Jenn Hatch / alltrails.com

The trails found in the center of the network are mixed use, which means you may run into some mountain biking. The outer trails are single track.

Western Foothills Land Trust / Maine Trail Finder

And it surprised us to learn that this out-of-the-way preserve even offers opportunities to appreciate art. You’ll find 6 Bernard Langlais sculptures here which are all a part of a statewide art trail.

Dave Herzer Jr / alltrails.com

Although, most of us would consider the views here to be art!

Phil Sidebotham / alltrails.com

Enjoy each of the trails while taking in the breeze and fresh air smells!

Summer Rain / alltrails.com

Shepard’s Farm Preserve is a beautiful place to spend a day. You can learn more about it on alltrails.com or Maine Trail Finder.

Meg Oneill / alltrails.com

Summer Rain / alltrails.com

Jenn Hatch / alltrails.com

Western Foothills Land Trust / Maine Trail Finder

Dave Herzer Jr / alltrails.com

Phil Sidebotham / alltrails.com

And no matter the location, there are plenty of places to enjoy a hike that won’t take hours. Here are 12 amazing Maine hikes under 3 miles you’ll absolutely love.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: 139 Crockett Ridge Rd, Norway, ME 04268, USA