Scarborough Marsh

As the largest salt marsh in the state of Maine, Scarborough Marsh is host to a wide variety of plant and animal life. Numerous species of birds can be spotted in this 3,100-acre saltwater marsh, as they use the area as a stopover while on their migratory journeys north in the spring and south in the fall. Many species of fish feed in the rivers flowing through the marsh, attracting fisherman from all over and local commercial lobster boats. Seals, and even an occasional porpoise, can also be seen in these rivers. The marsh also supports two commercial oyster farms and hundreds of recreational clammers.

Exploring this area is fun and accessible by foot, canoe, or kayak. The Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center on Pine Point Road provides a variety of guided and self-guided walks and canoe tours, as well as exhibits, a nature trail, canoe rentals, and a Maine Audubon Nature Store.

The town’s Pine Point Beach abuts the marsh with frontage on Saco Bay for a complete connection from marsh-to-ocean habitat. The Eastern Trail, on the former Portland Railroad, provides a path through the marsh for walking, biking, cross-country skiing, and bird watching to fully enjoy this unique habitat.