South Berwick MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near South Berwick, Maine.
1. Orris Falls Conservation Area
SCENIC FALLS AND TRAILS
Orris Falls Conservation Area is a 213-acre preserve with 3.76 miles of trails, straddling the border in the heart of Tatnic. The trail network includes 1.5 miles of moderate difficulty paths featuring dirt forest floor and rock ledge surfaces. Visitors can access the conservation area from three different routes: South Berwick via Knights Pond Road, North Berwick via Boyd's Corner Road, or Ogunquit via Berwick Road.
2. Kenyon Hill Preserve
DRAMATIC LEDGES AND WETLANDS
Kenyon Hill Preserve is a hilly 108-acre preserve with many surprises along its 1-mile loop trail. The preserve features dramatic ledges, verdant wetlands, blueberry patches, and stone walls throughout the property. Hikers can enjoy the diverse natural landscape that showcases the ecological variety of southern Maine.
3. Negutaquet Conservation Area
RIVER AND WOODLAND TRAILS
Negutaquet Conservation Area encompasses 100 acres that includes a small river, old family cemetery, and lovely woods. The conservation area is connected to Maple Street Conservation Area via a path on private land. Visitors can explore the natural beauty while enjoying the historical elements preserved within the boundaries.
4. Maple Street Conservation Area and Town Forest
EXTENDED WOODLAND NETWORK
Maple Street Conservation Area and Town Forest offers 2.2 miles of trails through preserved woodland. This preserve is connected to the Negutaquet parcel via a path on private land that doesn't allow pets. Hikers can choose between a shorter walk within the conservation area or extend their journey to the connected Negutaquet parcel for a longer experience.
5. Negutaquit Nature Trails
SCHOOL-ADJACENT FOREST PATHS
Negutaquit Nature Trails are located behind the primary school with 55 well-blazed and very pretty trails that pass through a mature forest. The trails feature a suspension bridge over the Negutaquet River and paths along the edges of a meadow. The public can visit these trails when school is not in session to enjoy the natural diversity.
6. Madeline Blaisdell Walking Trails
ACCESSIBLE RECREATION LOOPS
Madeline Blaisdell Walking Trails consist of two half-mile trails that loop around North Berwick's recreation center. One trail is wheelchair accessible and circles the fields, while the other loop takes walkers through the woods. The dual-trail system offers options for visitors of varying mobility levels and outdoor preferences.
7. Bauneg Beg Mountain
EXTRAORDINARY LOCAL SUMMIT
Bauneg Beg Mountain is quite an extraordinary little mountain for this part of Maine. Hikers can enjoy an easy 0.6-mile or so hike to a lookout with scenic views. The relatively short trail offers a rewarding summit experience that stands out among the generally flatter terrain of southern Maine.
8. Grover-Herrick Preserve
POND VIEW FOREST LOOP
Grover-Herrick Preserve features a 1-mile loop through wooded terrain. The trail includes a bench overlooking part of Bauneg Beg Pond, providing a perfect spot for rest and reflection. Visitors can enjoy a relatively short but scenic hiking experience with rewarding water views.
9. Grant's Meadow at Beaver Dam Heath
HEATH-ADJACENT WALKING PATH
Grant's Meadow at Beaver Dam Heath offers a 3/4-mile walk close to the heath ecosystem. The trail provides visitors with access to unique wetland habitats and associated wildlife. The relatively short trail makes this an accessible option for hikers of various skill levels looking to experience southern Maine's natural diversity.
10. Eastern Promenade Trail
RAIL TRAIL EXPERIENCE
The Eastern Promenade Trail is part of South Berwick's network of over 71 trails covering more than 400 miles. This rail trail offers a well-maintained path suitable for both walking and biking through the scenic landscapes of southern Maine. The trail connects to other paths in the region, allowing for custom-length adventures through the area's natural beauty.