One of Portland's best walking, jogging, and roller blading spots, this trail starts at the Eastern Promenade and follows the narrow gauge railroad bed along the shoreline from East End Beach to Commercial Street. The 1 1/2 mile paved walkway, lined with a profusion of sea roses and other wild flowers in summer, winds past a sandy beach, rocky outcroppings, the Portland Yacht Services marina, and the site of the former Bath Iron Works dry dock. Along the way are great views of Fort Gorges and the islands of Casco Bay. The path extends in the opposite direction towards Tukey's Bridge, and connects to the 3 3/4 mile jogging path of Back Cove. Difficulty level: Easy. Directions

Back Cove Trail

This nearly four mile-long walking and jogging path is the City's most popular spot for walkers and joggers. The path hugs the waters of Back Cove along Baxter Boulevard and offers panoramic views of the City of Portland. To enjoy a variety of ducks and other waterfowl, go at high tide. Difficulty level: Easy. Directions

Mackworth Island

The public is allowed on the grounds of the Baxter School for the Deaf in Falmouth to walk the scenic path around the island. The one-mile trail is an easy walk through tall pines at the water's edge, and offers spectacular views of the city of Portland on one side and the islands of Casco Bay on the other. There are several stairways leading to sandy beaches for those who want to stop and explore. The trail can be muddy in spring after a rainstorm. Difficulty level: Easy. Directions

Capisic Pond

One of Portland's lesser known birding sites, this pond, fed by the Fore River, is bordered by an unpaved trail from Capisic Street to Brighton Avenue. Benches along the way invite you to stop and enjoy the sights and sounds of birds and waterfowl. Perfect for a relaxed ramble. Directions

Maintained by the Maine Audubon Society, the 85-acre Fore River nature preserve in the heart of Portland includes a two-mile trail along the route of the historic Cumberland and Oxford Canal, over the salt marsh, and through forested ravines to Jewell Falls, Portland's only waterfall. The terrain is a little more challenging than the paths of Back Cove or Eastern Promenade, but the sanctuary offers a rich experience for nature and bird lovers. Directions

Gilsland Farm

Gilsland Farm, home of the Maine Audubon Society in Falmouth, offers two miles of level walking trails along the Presumpscot River estuary, through large open meadows, woods, salt marsh, an orchard, and a pond. The sanctuary provides opportunities for observing birds and other wildlife. Difficulty level: Easy. Directions

Willard Beach

Rowe Avenue entrance: Heading west on Brighton Avenue (Route 25), go past the intersection with Capisic Street. Turn left onto Rowe Avenue. Park at the end of the street. The trail is on your left.

From the south, take I-295 to Exit 9, Falmouth Foreside. Continue north on U.S. Route One for 1.9 miles and bear left at the Maine Audubon sign just before the junction with Route 88. Take a left at the Gilsland Farm sign and follow the dirt drive 0.25 miles to the parking area near the nature center.