Discover the Hidden Gem of Freeport: The Desert of Maine

Lisa and I found a reference to the Desert of Maine some years back so we drove up the coast to Freeport Maine on an early September day.

The Desert of Maine, located near the charming town of Freeport, is one of Maine’s most curious and fascinating natural phenomena. Known for its strikingly barren landscape amidst lush forests, this 40-acre desert is a destination that has captured the imagination of visitors for nearly a century.

Make sure you pick up a copy of the Maine Gazetteer in my Amazon store

A Glimpse into the History

The story of the Desert of Maine began in the late 18th century when the Tuttle family purchased the land in 1797. The Tuttles were farmers who cultivated the land for several generations. However, in the 19th century, over-farming and poor land management led to soil erosion, exposing a large deposit of glacial silt, known as sand, beneath the fertile topsoil. This exposed sand spread over the land, creating the unique desert-like landscape we see today.

The Tuttles eventually abandoned the farm, and in 1919, the land was bought by Henry Goldrup, who saw its potential as a tourist attraction. He developed the site, adding features such as a barn museum and a gift shop. Since then, the Desert of Maine has been a popular spot for tourists intrigued by its unusual appearance and fascinating history.

Features of the Desert of Maine Today

Today, the Desert of Maine offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages:

Self-Guided Tours: Visitors can wander on a mile-long path around the desert, learning the history of the land and its transformation from a fertile farm to a barren desert. interpretive signs provide insights into the geological and human factors that contributed to this unique landscape.
Nature Trails: For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, several nature trails wind through the desert and surrounding woods. These trails offer a closer look at the flora and fauna that have adapted to the sandy environment.
Fossil Dig Area: Children and adults alike can enjoy the fossil dig area, where they can search for and uncover ancient marine fossils, providing a hands-on learning experience about the region’s prehistoric past.
Gemstone Village: This interactive activity allows kids to “mine” for gemstones and minerals. It’s a fun and educational experience, especially popular with families.
Barn Museum: Housed in an original 19th-century barn, this museum showcases artifacts and exhibits detailing the history of the Desert of Maine and the Tuttle family farm. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the agricultural practices of the past and the environmental changes that led to the desert’s formation.
Secret Sandbox : An area for younger kids. There are digging toys and a sit-on excavator to dig in the sand.

A Unique Destination

This is a wonderful “Plan B” to add to your coastal Maine excursions. There are only pine trees so leaf-peeping is out but! for an hour or two the kids will really enjoy it. So I think its well worth it.

Other Plan B’s to keep in mind

Vermont

Vermont Country Store

Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Ben and Jerrys

Any of 70 + covered bridges

Vermont Cider Donut Trail

AND NOT SLEEPY HOLLOW FARM 🙂

New Hampshire

Clarks Bears, they close around Columbus Day

Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill
Call Ahead as they are very busy

Calif’s Country Store, Barrington NH

Cider Donut Trail, https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-hampshire/apple-cider-donut-trail-nh/

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, Concord

Castle in the Clouds Route 25 in Moultonboro NH

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Holderness

Cog Rail up Mount Washington

Maine

Sabbathday Quaker Village, 707 Shaker Rd, New Gloucester, ME

Freeport and L.L. Bean

The Dessert of Maine

Coastal Maine, Lighthouses, Portland Head Light, Nubble Lighthouse, etc…

Kittery Trading Post, Kittery Maine

8 Covered Bridges

The Desert of Maine stands out as a unique destination in New England. Its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and educational activities make it a perfect spot for a day trip or a longer visit. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a unique experience, the Desert of Maine offers something for everyone.

Jeff Foliage Folger

Autumn is a state of mind more than a time of year – Jeff Foliage

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