Maguire Preserve
In the winter of 2014, Ann Marie Maguire donated 78 acres to with the intent to provide the first public trail access to Weary Pond.
Story of the Land
The land can be tracked all the way back to Jonathan Heath who originally built the neighboring red cottage, which is the second oldest house in Whitefield. Throughout the years the land that is now preserved was used for both forestry and agriculture. Look for the network of stone walls and old stumps throughout the preserve.
Before conservation, Ann Marie and Denis Maguire created trails from their house over to Weary Pond. The Maguires were also inspired by the Arnold Expedition to Quebec and the hardship of portaging along the upper Kennebec. From this they dreamed of creating a water trail from Weary Pond to the Sheepscot River and out to the ocean.
What You Might See
At the beginning of the trail you will find yourself in dense woods originally planted by the Maguires to give themselves some privacy. As you make your way down the trail you will find yourself in a mixed wood forest with a beautiful stream and waterfall caused by an old beaver’s dam. From here you will meander over ledges, beside glacial erratics, and eventually come to a scenic wetland vista. The bog is full of wild blueberries, Cotton Grass, larger Blue Flag Iris, and Wild Calla Lilies. Once you cross the discontinued Weary Pond Road you will end up at the final lollipop of the trail. This loop takes you to the scenic Weary Pond where pond and marshland meet. It is a beautiful place to take a dip along the cat-tailed lined shore.
If you walk quietly you can find mink playing in the stream, or hear chickadees and woodpeckers in the trees. There is evidence of deer throughout the forest with the occasional evidence of moose. While hiking on the trail keep your eyes open for small mammals, little tree frogs and in fall, an abundance of dragon flies near the bog and pond.
“It was our dream to see a trail to Weary Pond made possible from the Heath Road through this unique parcel. Some of my favorite places are ‘The Overlook’ —a peaceful view of a small beaver pond in the stream—, the springtime roar from the waterfall over the ledges, and the little island in the middle of the stream. I hope people will enjoy this lovely area for years to come.” - Anne Marie Maguire
Directions:
Maguire Preserve
256 Heath Road
Whitefield, ME 04353
From Waldoboro: Take Route 32 North. In 9.5 miles turn onto route 126 west. In 6 miles turn left onto 218 south and immediately turn left onto Hilton Rd. in 1.3 miles turn right onto Health Rd. In 1.2 miles the preserve will be on your left.
From Wiscasett: Take Route 218 North. In 12.3 miles turn right onto Heath Rd. in 1.6 miles the preserve will be on your right.
