Lincoln: Coastal Landscapes, Nature and History

Lincoln offers a range of ways to enjoy a stay: historic sites, waterfront landscapes and trails, as well as insights into marine ecology. You can plan your trip around what interests you most—perhaps architecture and coastal history, waterside hiking trails, or a visit focused on the Gulf of Maine.

Historic Places and Stories

Colonial Pemaquid is a state historic site administered by the Bureau of Parks and Public Lands of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Fort Edgecomb overlooks the Sheepscot River and the Back River. The octagonal, two-story fort is modeled on English forts. Its shape and design give the site a distinctive architectural character.

Castle Tucker, by contrast, focuses on the history of life of a prominent Maine coastal shipping family. The story spans 150 years. At Pownalborough Court House, visitors can hike the trail system in the woods across the road. The options range from historic buildings and family history to a visit that can be paired with a walk.

Waterfront Landscapes and Trails

Dodge Point has more than 8,000 feet of Damariscotta River frontage and is the northeastern terminus of the River-Link Trail. Access is by boat from the public landing in Damariscotta or by vehicle via River Road, which lies south of U.S. Route 1. Choose a boat or vehicle to get there; the River-Link Trail ends at the northeastern point of Dodge Point.

Oak Point Farm is a 32-acre preserve with more than 2,000 feet of coastline along Hodgdon Cove. A 0.6-mile trail is accessible and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Another easy, one-mile loop trail runs through fields and woods along the water. The accessible 0.6-mile trail is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers; the easy loop trail is longer, at one mile.

Ovens Mouth Preserve features waterfront trails, quiet coves and salt marshes. There are more than five miles of hiking trails in total. The preserve provides habitat for eagles, ospreys, otters and deer. Its combination of trails, sheltered coves and salt marshes also makes it appealing to travelers who want to explore coastal landscapes on foot, not just view them from the shore.

Marine Insights and Regional Experiences

The Maine State Aquarium presents the Gulf of Maine as a dynamic ecosystem with more than 3,000 species. Visitors learn about the ecological role of kelp and scallops in the Gulf; the science and management of regional aquaculture are also featured. Exhibits may change seasonally, so it’s worth checking the latest visitor information. Parking is very limited, and there is no landing for boat arrivals. Check this access information before your visit.

Boothbay Railway Village offers train rides around its grounds. Since schedules may change, check the times if a ride is an important part of your plans. Damariscotta River Cruises offers cruises with oyster and wine tastings. The offerings also include trips to eleven oyster farms on the Damariscotta River and seal watching. Since schedules and offerings may change, it’s a good idea to check the latest dates and details for your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Newagen, Boothbay Harbor, Waldoboro, Alna, South Bristol, Wiscasset, Boothbay, Bristol, Edgecomb, Southport

For the main travel overview: Maine.