A mini-Enchanted Rock in Maine

A nice little hike near Freeport, Maine (if you're tired of visiting LL Bean) is up the eponymous "mountain" in Bradbury Mountain State Park.

After inserting the "mini" into my post title, I was surprised to learn that its elevation is about the same as its big brother in Texas, although it's not nearly as broad and has much less rock exposed. The trail to the top wasn't nearly as strenuous, either, and the environment is a lot different...

no forests along the trail in Texas!

I don't think I've ever seen fungi on any of the much smaller trees along the trails at Enchanted Rock...

what happens when a climate includes more than minimal rainfall

I'm always fascinated by the almost artistic impression that lots of intertwining roots make in the woods. Even though they do sometimes make for unsure footing!

A special treat for the kids was the appearance, after our picnic lunch at the top, of horseback riders...

As the park website notes, it's the only park in this part of Maine that has some shared trails for horses, mountain bikes, and snowmobiles. We only saw the horses this time.

My oldest granddaughter pointed out to me the one thing you can't see from the top of Enchanted Rock that is just visible here—the ocean! Click to enlarge this picture and look in the red box.

It will be fun when the girls are a little older, to take them to the big rock here in Texas. When their dad and aunt were young that was one of our favorite outings.