Staff photo by Scott Martin

The rushing water, pounding over the rocks and under the foot bridges of "Hobbit Land" greets you the second you enter the Vaughan Woods.

On my first walk through the Vaughan Woods, I was greated by this beautiful soundtrack and couldn't wait to see its source. I'd heard about "Hobbit Land" from friends and coworkers, but despite the fact that I've lived less than a mile from the Vaughan Woods in Hallowell for nearly four years, I hadn't seen this treasure for myself until a walk through the woods last week.

It was well worth the trip. I felt like I had been sent back into time, crossing the roaring Vaughan Brook on a old stone foot bridge. It was a nice escape from the roar of the nearby Interstate.

Staff photo by Scott Martin