Mitchell Field, Harpswell

An unusual, but in its way charming and very beautiful property, Mitchell Field is composed of more than 100 acres of coast, fields, a beach, a community garden, paved and unpaved trails, and old navy buildings. It was once the fuel depot site for the now defunct Brunswick Naval Air Station. A sign at the trailhead provides a bit of the park’s history.

On certain, very clear days, you can see across the bay to Mount Washington. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, and I think this place would be a good place to x-c ski. Wheelchairs and strollers are able to access the paved, and some of the unpaved, portions of the trail system.

It can be quite breezy here. If the wind is too much on the open paths through the meadows, check out the wooded trails on the south side of the property, to the left of the beach if you’re looking at the bay. They are flat, wide, and easy. Though they’re not blazed, it’s hard to get lost!

During the summer, you can end your walk (or start it!) with an ice cream cone from the beloved Pammy’s Parlor at the top of the drive.

Directions: The entrance is 6.9 miles south of the Brunswick town line on Route 123 (5.6 miles from town office; look for the blue water tower). The parking area is along the fence just before the fire station. You can also park closer to the beach. There are many places to park here.