Sunday's the day to get down on the farm, all 10 of them

McDougal's Orchards will be one of 10 farms on the walk and a great place to park the car for the day. (Courtesy image)

SPRINGVALE - A spectacular family outing awaits Sunday when 10 Springvale farms open their doors to the public so they can enjoy a glimpse of Maine agriculture up close and personal.

It's the annual Springvale Farm Walk, which affords folks the chance to visit 10 farms along a self-guided four-mile walk through beautiful orchards, pastures and woods.

A great place to start your tour is at McDougal Orchards, where there is plenty of parking. McDougal's is also where the day kicks off with a pancake breakfast sponsored by Three Rivers Land Trust from 8-9 a.m.

The farm walk begins at 9 a.m. with shuttle service for those who don't want to walk.

Each farm along the way will offer guests a close-up look at what they do and a complimentary beverage.

Many will also be selling prepared foods.

Ellen McAdam, owner of McDougal Orchards, said the farm next to hers sells garlic, eggs and vegetables.

The walk is organized by Sanford Trails and participating farms and is part of Maine's 28^th Annual Open Farm Day. Activities may include barn and field tours, milking, hay rides, nature trails, beautiful scenery, samples for tasting and refreshments.

Many farms are handicapped accessible, have restrooms, and can handle group or bus tours.

The Springvale Farm Walk features farms that raise sheep, Christmas trees, mushrooms, vegetables, berries, and apples. Farms along the way also make cheese, hard cider and maple syrup.

Organizers of the event note there are a few rough spots on the trails, but easily walkable by children.

Leashed dogs are allowed, but owners are expected to pick up after them.

Parking is best at McDougal Orchards, 201 Hanson Ridge Road, or Carpenter Tree Farm, 14 Hazen Drive (off Blanchard Road).

Three Lebanon farms are also part of the state's Open Farm Day, including Spiritwind Farm, Prospect Hill Winery and Maple Moon Farm.

For listings of all the farms participating across the state and in York County click here.

Directions to McDougal's for those traveling east from Rochester on Route 202: Take a Left on 11A, then a Right on Hanson Ridge Road to 201 Hanson Ridge Road. The farm will be on your left.