Deserts are barren, sandy wastelands. They're known for being hot and dry. A desert conjures up images of camels, mirages, and ... Maine?
The Desert of Maine, in Freeport, Maine was formed when a glacier moved through Maine 11000 years ago, leaving behind the glacial silt that makes the desert. It was covered up over the centuries. Then, though, the Tuttle family moved to the 300 acre farm that once covered the Desert of Maine in 1797. The farmers failed to rotate their crops over the years and, combined with massive land-clearing and overgrazing, the top soils were destroyed. Severe soil erosion resulted, exposing the hidden desert underneath.
The Tuttles exposed the silt underneath the farmland. What started as a small patch grew over the years to cover the entire farm. It continues growing a little each year even today. In 1919, the Tuttle family sold the ruined farm for $300 to Henry Goldrup. Goldrup then turned the land into a tourist attractions because who would think there'd be an actual desert in the cooler climate, pine-covered state of Maine? This is something people would surely come to see.
And, of course, the tourists came!
Today, you can tour the desert, either by walking or by jeep, to learn its history. The site also has a farm museum, tent camping, gem mining for kids, and a souvenir shop where you can create your own colored sand bottles. The historic Tuttle Farm's barn is also tourable. However, maybe look for tips on how not to farm while there!
* While in Freeport, you can also visit the site of the flagship LL Bean store which doubles as a massive LL Bean outlet.
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