ULTIMATE Guide to the Bangor City Forest & Orono Bog Walk
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Amid the thriving city of Bangor Maine lies the Bangor City Forest and Orono Bog Walk. These two naturally beautiful locations provide visitors with a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Both are wonderful for a visit that ranges from an hour to a full-day trip. Enjoy connecting with nature or partake in outdoor recreational activities like hiking, snowshoeing, running, and cross-country skiing.
About the Bangor City Forest & Orono Bog Walk
Featuring over 680 acres of wildlife habitats, forests, trails, and natural flora, the Bangor City Forest is owned and operated by the city of Bangor.
The formal name is the Rolland F. Perry City Forest, but locals and regular visitors know it simply as Bangor City Forest. This protected area has miles of trails for outdoor recreational activities and over 4 miles of access roads to reach the trails.
The Orono Bog Walk
The Orono Bog Walk is a boardwalk that stretches 1 mile over Orono Bog. It leads visitors past native vegetation, and they may even catch a glimpse of Maine wildlife and native birds.
Along the walk, signs identify animal species, bog plants, and other relevant information. The Orono Bog Walk is handicap accessible and has many benches too.
It’s important to note that certain rules need to be followed for the enjoyment of all visitors to the Orono Bog Walk. The boardwalk is for walking only, so leave your skateboards, bicycles, scooters, and rollerblades at home.
Also, the boardwalk is not pet-friendly because dogs may startle wildlife and birds, so leave your four-legged friends at home. There are no restrooms along the path either, and smoking, littering, loud music, and leaving the boardwalk path are prohibited as well.
The History
The Bangor City Forest is named for Rolland F. Perry, a Bangor City Forester from 1964 to 2006. The forest has been in existence for generations but was formally dedicated in Rolland F. Perry’s name in the 2000s.
From 2002 to 2003, the Orono Bog Walk was crafted over eight months by the Maine Conservation Corps, volunteers, and local correctional facility personnel. It consists of over 500 hemlock boards that measure 8 feet in length by 4 feet in width.
Before starting construction, the land was prepared and leveled. The hemlock boards were first waterproofed and then attached with jigs. Now, the boardwalk sits on water-saturated peat moss with footings holding it in place.
The Location
The Bangor City Forest has two entrances — one at Tripp Drive and the other at Kittredge Road. Located just a quarter-mile from the East Trail (Tripp Drive) entrance is the Orono Bog Walk. There are access roads on the outskirts of the park for getting recreational vehicles, bicycles, and gear to the trails.
Things to Do at the Bangor City Forest & Orono Bog Walk
The Bangor City Forest and Orono Bog Walk are an outdoor adventurers’ happy place. With so many trails ranging from easy to moderately challenging and a variety of wildlife, visitors can choose their adventure of the day.
Biking & Hiking
The terrain ranges from gravel to dirt to forest floor for mountain biking and hiking. The well-maintained natural trails are clearly labeled on wooden signs with white writing. But, we recommend that you take a map before heading out.
Wildlife Watching
For those who enjoy a more relaxed outdoor experience, take binoculars for amazing bird-watching opportunities. See if you can spot a butterfly, frog, turtle, or other bog wildlife. There’s no shortage of natural sights and sounds to immerse yourself in at the Bangor City Forest and Orono Bog Walk.
Leaf Peeping
During autumn, visitors flock to the Bangor City Forest and Orono Bog Walk to leaf peep. The leaves change color from September to November with a peak season in October. Visitors will find stunning shades of orange, red, yellow, and green adorning the trees and plants of the forest.
Snowshoeing & Skiing
Even though the Orono Bog Walk is closed in the winter, the Bangor City Forest still has plenty of winter recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy. Take your snowshoe and cross-country ski gear, and set off on one of the groomed trails.
Or, bundle up and enjoy a brisk winter walk along one of the trails. Even with snow and ice on the ground, you may spot birds and wildlife foraging in the forest.
Things to Know Before Visiting the Bangor City Forest & Orono Bog Walk
- The Bangor City Forest is open year-round to visitors.
- The Orono Bog Walk is open seasonally, typically from early May to the end of November, and the hours vary. It’s closed during inclement weather, including snowy and icy conditions.
- The Orono Bog Walk has guided nature walks during the open season. These free guided walks are about an hour to an hour and a half in length and teach visitors about wildlife, plants, and bogs.
- As the Orono Bog Walk is only 4 feet wide, it is for walking only.
- Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk but are allowed in the Bangor City Forest.
- Parking is free in the two lots and may be limited depending on the season and weather.
- Pack your own snacks and drinks because there are no vending machines or spots to buy refreshments. Picnic tables are available to enjoy anything that you carry in.
Lodging Near the Bangor City Forest & Orono Bog Walk
The Bangor City Forest and Orono Bog Walk are not the only two places to explore in this city. To get the most out of your visit, consider one of these Bangor Maine lodging options nearby.
Black Bear Inn
The Black Bear Inn is a 68-room hotel offering accommodations within minutes of Bangor City Forest. The inn has typical queen and king rooms or suites for those requiring more space.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable and have all of the amenities you need to recharge after a day of exploring the forest. Dogs are even welcome for an additional charge.
Country Inn at the Mall
If you’re looking to stay in Bangor Maine and be within minutes of the city’s attractions but also very close to the Bangor City Forest, the Country Inn at the Mall is centrally located.
This 93-room hotel has rooms ranging from king to deluxe double beds. Amenities include a complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a fitness room, and daily housekeeping.
The Tarratine
Located in the Great Fire District of Bangor, The Tarratine is a lovely historic inn for those looking for a more homey accommodation than the larger inns in the area. Guests can choose from different suites that have king, queen, or double beds.
Amenities include free parking and Wi-Fi, a complimentary continental breakfast, and beautiful common areas to enjoy. The Tarratine is located in the heart of Bangor but just minutes from the Bangor City Forest.
Visit the Bangor City Forest & Orono Bog Walk on Your Next Trip to Bangor
Bangor’s best-kept secret, the Bangor City Forest and Orono Bog Walk make for the perfect retreat when you’ve had your fill of city life. Just minutes from the major attractions, fancy restaurants, and accommodations that Bangor has to offer, the Bangor City Forest is centrally located.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just a casual visitor looking to get out in nature and enjoy a casual walk, the Bangor City Forest and Orono Bog Walk is a destination offering something for all abilities, ages, and interests.