Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth
Let’s begin with some clarification…
Perhaps the most misunderstood state park in Maine is in Cape Elizabeth. A glance at its name — “Two Lights State Park” — is enough to send lighthouse seekers flocking to the site with dreams of viewing two for the price of one. But spread the word: there are no lighthouses at Two Lights State Park.
There is, however, no need to delete this location from your bucket list. In fact, you would truly miss out on a gem if you did so. This is one of my favorite parks in the state. It has a rugged coastline with breathtaking views that seem to stretch without end. If you want a sandy beach, head five minutes down the road to Crescent Beach State Park. But if you’re looking for a quintessential view of the rocky Maine coast with ample space to sit and take it all in, Two Lights is your sweet spot. The trails are easy to climb, and benches are always close at hand. It is an ideal location for a picnic with tables and grills tucked away in slightly secluded corners. A playground and restrooms are also available. The park is higher in elevation than some others so you might want to bring along a light sweater even if it is a warm day.
During World War II, the U.S. Army authorized a gun battery to be build on these grounds. Construction was completed in 1943, but the Allies won the war before it was equipped with guns. The bunker is noticeable from the parking lot. According to park manager, Kurt Shoener, their goal is to raise the funds to one day open up the bunker, as well as the concrete observation tower, so visitors can explore them.
Battery 201. Closed for now. Perhaps opened to the public in the future?
The state of Maine purchase the area from the federal government in 1961 and opened the state park. That same decade, Lady Bird Johnson came to visit. She broke ground on a garden and participated in a clam bake. Footage from her visit, including the First Lady “decked out” in a plastic bib, can be seen below (jump ahead to the 8 minute mark and continue for 2.5 minutes). Her expression is priceless as she picks up a lobster from her plate, clearly unsure of what to do next.
So what’s the story behind the misfit “Two Lights” name? The Visit Maine website has the answer:
The park's name originated from the twin lighthouses located nearby at the end of Two Lights Road. Built in 1828, these were the first twin lighthouses on the coast of Maine. Although not open to the public, the eastern light is an active, automated light station, visible 17 miles at sea. The western light ceased operation in 1924 and is now a private home.
Tell your friends: unless you’re looking for lighthouses, Two Lights State Park will not disappoint.
I’m on a mission to visit every town in Maine. Check here to see if I’ve featured yours yet: All The Visits. To learn more about this adventure, see the about page.