Natural History

When the glaciers made their way back to the arctic at the end of the last ice age, they left an indelible trail of rocky coastlines, rugged hills, granite cliffs and open fields perfectly suited for our native blueberries. Maine's Ice Age Trail follows their path.

The tides are another force of nature which have helped to form the area and its way of life. Because we have some of the highest tides anywhere, we have waterfalls that go backwards (Reversing Falls), spectacular whirlpools and projects working to harness the tidal power.

The sun rises first over the United States on our our shores and this special time of day can be appreciated from many vantage points. Our days in the summer are also longer than in many other places in this country.

Our national park, our state parks, public lands, wildlife refuges and local parks all offer a glimpse into our natural history.