Maine State Aquarium

The east side of the Damariscotta River once contained an enormous shell heap named Whaleback because of its shape. Much of this midden was removed in the late 1880s to supply a factory built here to process the oyster shells into chicken feed. As a result, only a small portion of Whaleback remains today. Managed in cooperation with the Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, the area around the midden is now a State Historic Site that includes a small hiking trail and beautiful views of the river. A series of interpretive panels helps inform visitors about the history of the area.

A little but lovely spot at the north end of Westport Island, Clough Point short and easy .5 mile walk offers a short dog walk or picnicking spot. There are lots of artfully placed picnic tables perched over pretty ledges for some beautiful dinners at dusk. One of the trails is wheelchair accessible! The preserve also offers granite benches for taking in the views of Wiscasset. The trails closely hug the water. Pets allowed.