cache.
Sherman Lake
"Faraway, So Close!" is found on Sherman Lake in Newcastle,
Maine. For years I have driven by this small, attractive lake and
wondered if there were any trails nearby. There are, but not
they're not reachable from the popular rest area next to Rt. 1.
To reach this well-hidden preserve, take Rt. 1 to Dodge Road (if
coming from the south) or Lynch Road (if coming from the north).
The entry point to the preserve is at N43 59.582, W069 36.336, next
to a mailbox that says "Reiner, 173 Dodge Road." If you don't have
4-wheel drive, you will probably want to park here in wet or snowy
weather, as the access road is unpaved and rough. The tiny parking
area is 600 yards in on the right, at N43 59.793, 069 36.188.
Once on foot, follow the old farming road in until you reach the
trailhead at N43 59.935, W069 36.127. The trail is marked by orange
reflective arrows. They are spotty in places, but your GPS will
point you in the right direction. You will pass the sad remains of
what was the farm that stood on this site. Ponder for a moment the
difficulties of scratching out a living from the cold, rocky Maine
soil. Enjoy the views of the lake, and be careful in a few steep
places, particular in wet weather. In the warmer months I would
highly recommend bringing bug spray.
The cache contains fun items for young and old. Once you find
it, you may follow the trail back the way you came or complete the
loop by following the farming road out back to your car.
Have fun!
--IntotheWoods 
