Gisland Farm, Maine Audubon

Gisland Farm is a great sanctuary in the Greater Portland area. It is 65 acres that include the headquarters for the Maine Audubon and a nice selection of hiking trails.  The parking lot is right next to the headquarter, with easy access from the parking lot to the three major trails: North Meadow, West Meadow and Pond Trail. At the trail head there is a helpful map of the trails at the farm. Behind one section of the parking lot is a gorgeous peony garden, so if you are there when the peonies are blooming make sure to bring your camera.

We made two visits to Gisland Farm. The first time we stopped we walked the North Meadow Trail. One things we noticed immediately were the sculptures of Wendy Klemperer. This artist uses industrial materials to construct species in steel including wolves, elk, and deer. Art curator June Lacombe brings the sculptures to this setting and other artists featured include LIse Becu and Ray Carbone. The sculptures and the beautiful vistas along this trail would make a great destination for children and adults alike.

On our return visit to Gisland Farm, we walked the Pond Trail and the West Meadow Trail. The water lilies in the pond were beautiful and it would be another nice spot for a picnic lunch.
All of the trails are gentle and peaceful. Cameras are recommended!! You never know when you might see a wild turkey.

According to the Maine Audubon website, snowshoes are available for rent in the winter, so we will put this activity on our “bucket list” for January and we look forward to returning any time of year.