enlarge Carey Kish/For the Maine Sunday Telegram

A hiker uses a log bridge to cross a wilderness stream. You might need a jacket, but the advantages of fall hiking compensate.

enlarge Carey Kish/For the Maine Sunday Telegram

It’s not just tree leaves that make fall colorful. The pond-side vegetation at the Salt Bay Heritage Site in Damariscotta provides a golden glow to the fall scenery.

enlarge Carey Kish/For the Maine Sunday Telegram

Mountain views, especially coupled with water, add to the enjoyment.

Labor Day has passed and summer is waning. It's time to hang up the hiking boots and prepare for winter, right? No way! The best hiking of the year is ahead.

Think about it. The bugs are gone; no more annoying black flies, mosquitoes, midges or deer flies.

The heat and humidity have been replaced by warm days, bright sun and blue skies. Nights are cool and the sleeping is comfy again.

The brilliant yellows, reds and oranges of autumn are appearing as the hardwood trees slowly turn color. And those falling leaves are revealing great views formerly hidden by summer's cloak.

And one other thing: The crowds have thinned and the trails are a whole lot emptier. It's an annual phenomenon that I've yet to understand. Maybe it's the colder temperatures, I don't know. But it means more elbow room for you and me, and that's just fine.

So, what do you need to take to the autumn trails? Not much more than the usual pack load.

A headlamp helps should you get delayed. Another layer of fleece, hat and gloves and a wind-and-waterproof shell are insurance against the variable weather.

Extra energy foods and a Thermos of hot cocoa can sure provide a boost. And with short days an early start is a must.

Where to go for a hike? There are plenty of choices, so I've selected six of my fall favorites for you. All are short, easy and within two hours of Portland. Enjoy!

Finally, a couple of useful items: The AMC Maine Mountain Guide is the definitive resource for Maine trails, and the DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer is an ever-handy road navigation companion.

LAUDHOLM FARM – WELLS

The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve at Laudholm Farm in Wells is a 2,200-acre coastal preserve offering seven miles of trails that lead through a delightful mix of woodlands, fields and wetlands; to beaches and dunes; and along the Little River estuary.

Directions: From Wells travel north on Route 1 for a couple miles. Turn right onto Laudholm Farm Road and follow signs to the reserve. Info: Wells Reserve – www.wellsreserve.org or 646-1555. A small fee is charged through Columbus Day.

SALT BAY PRESERVE – DAMARISCOTTA

The Salt Bay Heritage Trail is a three-mile loop hike that takes in the scenic views of Salt Bay and the Damariscotta River. Hike through marsh grass, coastal forest, a sheep tunnel, old pastures, and past a freshwater pond. Don't miss the side trail to the amazing Glidden Point oyster shell heap.

Directions: Follow Route 1 north to Newcastle, then turn left on Mills Road. The trail is just ahead on the right, parking across the street. Info: Damariscotta River Association – www.draclt.org or 563-1393.

BALD MOUNTAIN – CAMDEN

This two-mile out-and-back hike (part of the Georges Highland Path system) leads to cliffs and ledges and terrific views of Ragged Mountain, Camden village and the ocean. Take the short loop trail near the top for an exciting rock scramble.

Directions: From Route 1 in Camden follow signs for Camden Snow Bowl (any number of streets will get you there). Pass Hosmer Pond and the ski area and continue on Barnestown Road for a mile to the trailhead. Info: Georges River Land Trust, www.grlt.org or 594-5166.

SABATTUS MOUNTAIN – CENTER LOVELL

Bear left and ascend to the ridgetop. Traverse easily to the remains of the old summit fire tower. Enjoy views of Lovewell Pond, Highland Lake and Pleasant Mountain and its ski trails. Scramble above the precipitous cliffs to a bench, an airy spot where the vista ranges west to the White Mountains.

Directions: From Center Lovell, take Route 5 north to Sabattus Mountain Road. Turn right and follow it to the Sabattus Trail Road. Parking is less than a mile...