Keep busy at home with these puzzles and games
while planning for summer fun!
BDN JUNIOR SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2020 • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Plan a Family GAMES!
Road Trip
FUN!
Anyone else looking forward to a change of scenery? We’re making plans for a Maine summer road trip! STORY & PHOTOS BY JENNIFER HAZARD e’ve all got big plans once the Coronavirus is W behind us and we no longer have to distance ourselves. Summer is sure to be filled with celebrations and get-togethers once it’s safe to do so. We could all use a change of scenery and a good dose of Vitamin D. While we’re cooped up inside, now’s a great time to start planning and dreaming of better days ahead. Maine is full of great family road trips just waiting to be explored, and the following trips are no further than one hour away from Bangor. Depending on the ages of your children, and your driving stamina, you can choose a summer road trip that’s just right for you and your family.
dren, as the loop walk is only 1.4 miles from start to finish. The flat trail, which was once an old roadway, begins in a forested area that leads to Bennett Cove, where walkers will find rocky outcroppings, dramatic views of the sea and tall pines. At low tide, kids can peer inside tidepools and search for small crabs or snails. The sea worn rocks provide plenty of space to play and explore. The Wonderland Trail in Southwest Harbor.
Bike the Kennebec River Rail Trail to Vaughan Woods The 6.5 mile Kennebec River Rail Trail starts at Memorial Bridge (just off Water Street) in Augusta, continues to Hallowell and Farmingdale, and ends in Gardiner. The trail parallels an inactive railway that once connected Portland to Augusta. The family-friendly trail offers plenty of places to enjoy views of the river, waterfalls and rushing brooks. You can also easily grab a bite to eat in any of the towns along the way. For those who want to bike to a specific destination, the Kennebec River Rail Trail is less than two miles from the entrance to Vaughan Woods (Litchfield Road) in Hallowell. Bikes are not allowed in the woods, but it’s a lovely space to stop and walk awhile. The nature preserve, which is operated by the Kennebec Land Trust, offers three trails to choose from. The two-mile combined Corniche Trail & The Loop is a carriage trail that was built in 1911 by the Vaughan family, who were committed to protecting and preserving the 197-acre parcel for community use. The trail is special as families will spot a stunning stone bridge, cascading waterfalls and a pond along the way. It’s a beautiful place to explore as the weather warms and the trees, flora and fauna come back to life.
Explore Southwest Harbor and Tremont When the spring thaw finally arrives, wide, well-traversed trails are ideal for walking. The Wonderland Trail (Seawall Road/102A) in Southwest Harbor is great for small chil-
After spending time on the trail, travel just 1.5 miles down the road to Bass Harbor Head Light in Tremont. The lighthouse, which was built in 1858 to warn vessels of the sand bar below, stands on a cliff 56 feet above the water. While the keeper’s house is a private residence, families can climb the rocky cliffs that surround the lighthouse. The views of the sea and the lighthouse above are impressive, which also makes this a popular destination for photos.
Enjoy Bar Harbor The Shore Path (Ells Pier) in Bar Harbor offers visitors the opportunity to walk along the waterfront and take in views of Frenchman Bay. The Shore Path, which dates back to 1880, is less than a mile long, but walkers often take time to view the historic homes and unique sights. Kids will especially appreciate Balance Rock, a large glacial rock that rests at the water’s edge as if it were a ship that ran ashore. For a learning experience that is apropos to a day outdoors, visit the nearby George B. Dorr Museum (105 Eden Street), at the College of the Atlantic. The small, natural history museum is home to exhibits about local wildlife, sea creatures, and thoughtfully created student dioramas. Visitors are invited to experience a touch
AMAZING
The George B. Dorr Museum at the College of the Atlantic.
tank filled with sea life. You’ll also find an impressive Sperm Whale Mandible (jawbone) on display. The museum is designed to engage the senses, so kids can see and touch wings, skulls and furs or enjoy the natural sounds of Acadia inside a cheery London red phone booth. Whatever trip you choose, remember you can tailor your travels to each location. In addition to exploring natural spaces, there are opportunities to discover new-to-you restaurants, nearby farms, markets and so much more. The beauty of road trips like these is in the discovery — everyone in the family will have a story to tell and a trip to always remember. Jennifer Hazard is a mother of two and the author of “The Maine Play Book: A Four-Season Guide to Family Fun and Adventure.”
TOO FUNNY! Here are some of our FAVORITE jokes and riddles that YOU sent us!
THANKS for sharing! Emmett F., Age 9
3RD GRADER AT KALER ELEMENTARY IN SOUTH PORTLAND SAM: WHAT TYPE OF GLASS HURTS THE MOST? MAX: I DON’T KNOW! SAM: A WINDOW PAIN! MAX: HAHAHAHA!
Using stairs and ladders, try to find the way from the boy to the Hot Air Balloon. No jumping or climbing up!
Lily S., Age 6
1ST GRADER AT HERMON ELEMENTARY
WHAT DO YOU CALL A SLEEPY WOODSMEN? A SLUMBER JACK.
Sophia P., Age 7
2ND GRADER AT HERMON ELEMENTARY
WHAT HAS A HEAD AND A TAIL, BUT NO BODY? A PENNY!
Logan G., Age 7
1ST GRADER AT CARMEL ELEMENTARY
WHY DID THE ORANGE STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD? HE RAN OUT OF JUICE!
Trevor L., Age 11
5TH GRADER AT BELGRADE CENTRAL SCHOOL
START
DON’T INTERRUPT SOMEONE WORKING ON A CROSSWORD PUZZLE. YOU MIGHT HEAR SOME “CROSS” WORDS.
See more jokes inside!