Cumberland: Lighthouse History, Coast and Nature

Portland Head Light, trails along Sebago Lake and views of the open Atlantic coast offer different highlights for a trip to Cumberland. There is also art, marshland and opportunities to get out on the water. When choosing where to stay, you can first consider which of these aspects you want to shape your visit: coastal scenery and nature, lighthouse history or outdoor activities.

Coast, Islands and Nature

The coastal region of Cumberland County includes the islands of Casco Bay. At Two Lights State Park, enjoy sweeping views of the Gulf of Maine and the open Atlantic. Scarborough Marsh is a different kind of natural area: the marsh covers almost 2,500 acres and is important to many wildlife species. These include rare species such as the least bittern and saltmarsh sparrow. While Two Lights offers expansive ocean views, the marsh is especially significant as a wildlife habitat. Kayaking is also possible on Casco Bay in Cumberland County; the Scarborough River in Scarborough has a boat launch that can be used at all tide stages.

Lighthouse History and Art

Portland Head Light is the oldest lighthouse in Maine. The Museum at Portland Head Light is located in the former lighthouse keepers’ quarters and displays several lighthouse lenses, as well as informative exhibits whose selection may change. The Portland Museum of Art in Cumberland County houses more than 20,000 works of art, including works by Andy Warhol, Winslow Homer, Louise Nevelson and Claude Monet. The number of works may change as the museum updates its collection. For culture enthusiasts, the highlights range from the history and optics of a lighthouse to an extensive art collection.

Trails and Outdoor Activities

At Sebago Lake State Park, some trails run along the Songo River and the north shore of Sebago Lake. On the Casco side of the park, 5.5 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails are available in winter. Of these, 3.7 miles are tracked for classic skiing and 1.5 miles are specially groomed for skating. The classic track is therefore longer than the specially groomed skating trail; availability depends on winter conditions. The Cliff Walk Trail in Fort Williams Park can be used for hiking. At Bradbury Mountain in Pownal, the Summit Trail, Northern Loop Trail, Bluff Trail and Ski Trail are listed; an easy hiking route is given as one mile long. The trails and activities therefore vary by landscape, season and type of activity.

Getting to Cumberland County

Portland International Jetport provides air access to Cumberland County, while the Downeaster offers rail service to the region. Air and rail are therefore different options for your trip. Check current routes and times before your travel date, as schedules and services may change.

Discover more destinations: Gorham, Harpswell, Falmouth, New Gloucester, Brunswick Cdp, Scarborough, South Portland, Portland, Freeport, Cape Elizabeth, Windham, Naples, Bridgton, Westbrook, Casco, Standish, Gray

For the main travel overview: Maine.