Hikes through the forest are plenty in Maine, but you don't necessarily need to strap on your boots for every adventure outside. Some are more accessible - and interesting - than you might think! This river walk in Maine can be found along the mighty Androscoggin River. The many rapids and rocks make for compelling scenery and the trail itself is easy and flat. Check it out and be sure to let us know of other river walks you've enjoyed in Maine.
The 1.6 mile Auburn Riverwalk will take you through the center of the old mill district of the Auburn and Lewiston twin cities.
The best part is the incredible views of the Androscoggin River that you'll have just about the entire time.
To take the walk, begin on the west side of the river next to Moulton Park.
From here continue on the gravel section of the trail for about 0.25 miles when you'll arrive at a fork in the road. This leads to Bonney Park.
Now you have some options! The left fork will take you north along the river for about 0.7 miles towards the overlook at Lewiston Falls (AKA Great Falls) at West Pitch Park. This is the main part of the walk and what you see in these photos.
If you choose the right fork at Bonney Park you'll go across the Androscoggin River on the 425-foot converted railroad bridge towards Simard-Payne Memorial Park.
This part of the walk keeps you a little closer to the parking area where you started. You'll find lots of nice walking trails that go towards the benches at the river. There's also a loop that will take you around the entire park for more views and exercise.
This is a great place to be in June for the Great Falls Brewfest!
In August, you'll find the the Great Falls Balloon Festival and in September, don't miss the Dempsey Challenge.
From here you have some options!
The path on the left will lead you north along the River for 0.7 miles towards West Pitch Park. and its overlook at Great Falls, also known as Lewiston Falls. One of only 15 urban waterfalls in the United States, it drops 37 feet over rocky outcrops and is still used for hydroelectric power. The segment is paved in bricks and offers benches for viewing wildlife or simply contemplating life.
Both choices on the route lead to wonderful views, especially if you take the trip in the morning or around sunset.
The mighty Androscoggin River is not to be missed. And, when you're done head into either of the twin towns cities for fuel up with breakfast, lunch or dinner.
To make things just a bit easier, the trail ends points are: Moulton Park at Hutchins St. and High St., Great Falls Plaza near Turner St., in Auburn and Simard-Payne Memorial Park at Beech St. and Oxford St. in Lewiston.
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Click here for a map of the entire Auburn River Walk. You can also find exact driving directions to the start by entering your starting point.
These directions assume you'll be starting in Auburn, but you can easily start in Lewiston as well. Check out the Auburn Riverwalk on traillink.com for a map and instructions for starting on the Lewiston side of the river.
Another unexpectedly simple hike is the one that leads up Elephant Mountain to the remains of a B-52 crash site. It sits right out outside of Greenville. Learn more about it here.
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