By: Zoe Bernardi, Community Editor
As the fall months approach us, and the leaves turn to shades of orange, yellow and brown when the air turns crisp and summer fades into autumn, we have to change our paces. In the words of our president Glenn Cummings, “One feels the intense swirl of the semester accelerating like the grounded leaves in the fall’s firm breeze.”
In fall there are many activities to do, places to eat cider donuts and sip pumpkin and cinnamon flavored coffees and enjoy the season changing. Rather than sitting at the beach, we would rather bundle up, take walks and exchange our iced beverages for something that warms our hands. Compiled below is the perfect list of fall activities and food places to fulfill the needs of those wanting to embrace the autumnal months.
Hiking — According to USM Outdoor Activities Board secretary Anya O’Meara, the best places to go for a walk in Portland include, Back Cove Trail, which is perfect for dog walking and admiring. For those who would like a little more of a medium level hikes would include, Bradbury Mtn, Douglas Mtn, and Pleasant Mtn. Other trials can be found online at Portland trials where there are many places to find walks, hikes, and local parks. The OAB is hosting a sunset hike at Bradbury on October 9th and can find more information on the school website.
Leaf peeping — Another place for a hike as well as viewing the fall foliage is Douglas Mountain, where also has an old stone fire tower. Also taking a walk near the water in Portland you can see the sunset, and the Gorham campus is already beginning to have leaves change color.
Pumpkin patch & Apple picking — Most people go to Randall Orchards for their pick-your-own apples 9-5 every day. Located in Standish just 15 minutes from Portland and 30 from Gorham. Randall also has hayrides and they also have pumpkins, gourds, and squash for sale. Another apple orchard is Sweetser’s Apple Barrel, where they also sell corn and maple syrup. Apple trains, farm stands, and mulled cider can be found at Brackett Orchards, located in Limington.
Hayrides + Corn mazes— For corn mazes, outdoor games and hayrides head over to Zach’s Corn Maze in York, the maze is $10 and for the day you can explore the different paths and trails. There is also a flashlight tag option, to wait until dark and escape with a flashlight. There is also a pumpkin patch and farm stand.
Donuts & other treats — Sweester also has paired up with Hifi donuts, where their apples are made into delicious donuts. These donuts can be found in the Hifi Portland location or at the farm. The Holy Donut also features a cinnamon sugar, and sweet potato donut using real Maine potatoes in their dough. The Holy Donut also has gluten-free options. Bam Bam Bakery in Portland has amazing pumpkin whoopie pies and pumpkin and banana bread. Pies can be found at the Portland farmers markets and farm stands at the orchards.
Pumpkin Spice Lattes, Chai & Apple Cider– A warm mug or cup in hand is a good way to beat the cold and brisk air, whether it’s a coffee, cider or tea if it’s keeping you warm it’s doing its job. Lattes at Barista and Bites are affordable and tasty, Coffee Me Up also has a strong brew to keep you warm, both found Portland. Chai can be done at your local Aroma joes, or stop by Dobra tea in Portland. Apple cider is best either warmed up in your home in a saucepan or at the farms stated above.
Whatever you plan to do this fall, just make sure you are bundled up, with friends and family. There are many ways to spend outside before it gets too cold, enjoying apple picking and warm beverages is the best way to do so.