Vassalboro MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Vassalboro, Maine.
1. Alewive Amble Loop
PONDSIDE NATURE WALK
Alewive Amble Loop is an easy one-mile hiking trail that offers 2,200 feet of undeveloped frontage along Webber Pond, providing scenic views of a wooded island. The trail is wide enough for groups to walk together and is accessible via the public boat landing at Webber Pond's outlet. This natural area showcases a rich variety of plants and birds and highlights the site's historical ties to the area's past inhabitants.
2. Virginia Rail Trail
MARSHLAND AND BIRDING TRAIL
The Virginia Rail Trail is a short, 0.2-mile one-way trail leading through woods to a cattail marsh teeming with wildlife, including wood duck boxes for birdwatchers. The area also features unmarked trails on old woods roads, adding to the possibilities for exploration. This trail provides an excellent opportunity to observe marsh habitats and the various birds that thrive there.
3. Vassalboro Town Forest Trail
COMMUNITY FOREST PATH
Vassalboro Town Forest Trail begins near the recreational fields just west of East Vassalboro, offering a peaceful hiking experience close to the heart of town. The trail meanders through forested land, making it suitable for families and those seeking a short nature escape. It's easily accessible and well-suited for a casual stroll through local woodlands.
4. Davidson Nature Preserve
BLUEBERRY FIELDS AND WOODS
Davidson Nature Preserve features 97 acres of scenic terrain, including ten acres of blueberry fields, wetlands, and mixed woodlands intersected by winding paths. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through diverse habitats that support a wide array of plants and wildlife. The preserve is especially attractive for those interested in native plant communities and open-space exploration.
5. Vassalboro Wildlife Habitat
WETLANDS AND HISTORY TRAIL
The Vassalboro Wildlife Habitat offers an easy loop trail that highlights 2,200 feet of undeveloped shoreline along Webber Pond and connects to a rich wetland ecosystem. Hikers can explore the land's historical use by Abenaki Indians, early settlers, and the era of the electric trolley. Today, it's a peaceful retreat for observing birds, plants, and remnants of the area's past.
6. Kennebec River Rail Trail
RIVERSIDE MULTI-USE PATH
The Kennebec River Rail Trail stretches over six miles between Augusta and Gardiner, providing a paved route for hiking, walking, and biking alongside the Kennebec River. This scenic trail is popular for its river views and easy accessibility from several nearby communities. It's a top pick for those seeking a longer, leisurely outdoor experience in central Maine.
7. Quarry Road Trails
YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Quarry Road Trails in Waterville offer over 6 miles of well-maintained trails used for hiking in summer and cross-country skiing in winter. The terrain includes open meadows and wooded paths along Messalonskee Stream, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. The site also hosts community events and is known for its accessible trailheads.
8. Messalonskee Stream Trail
STREAMSIDE WILDLIFE WALK
Messalonskee Stream Trail runs for several scenic miles along the stream in Oakland, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and lush riparian habitats. The relatively flat path makes hiking easy while immersing visitors in the natural beauty of the stream corridor. Several access points make the trail convenient for both short walks and longer hikes.
9. Kennebec Highlands Public Lands
MOUNTAIN AND LAKE VIEWS
Kennebec Highlands Public Lands encompass thousands of acres with a network of hiking trails, including summits like McGaffey Mountain offering panoramic views. The area's lakes, forests, and varied terrain attract hikers seeking both challenging climbs and gentle walks. It is a spacious natural area suited to day hikes or longer explorations.
10. Bond Brook Recreation Area
WOODLAND ADVENTURE LOOPS
Bond Brook Recreation Area features a multi-use trail system that winds through forested uplands and is popular for hiking, running, and mountain biking. The area offers a mix of easy and moderate trails just minutes from downtown Augusta. It's a favorite for visitors looking for a natural retreat within the city.