Every so often we appreciate a good sweat-inducing hike but these days we're loving the ones that are simple and easy. Bonus points for the trails that come with some history! This one, which links three different towns, fits all of that criteria. The next time you're in the mood for an outdoor experience, but aren't looking for anything too difficult consider making this your destination.
The Kennebec river, which runs between Moosehead Lake and the Gulf of Maine near Bath, passes through Skowhegan, Waterville, Augusta, Gardiner and Bath.
And it has one of the state’s richest histories. As a shipbuilding center it was an early trade route within Maine from the Atlantic coast and it was the site of the Battle of Hampden during the War of 1812.
Today the 6.5-mile Kennebec River Rail Trail follows railroad tracks that once connected Portland to Augusta along a portion of the Kennebec River’s west side as it makes its way towards the Gulf of Maine.
The tracks are now abandoned, but they’re actively maintained just in case they need to be used in the future.
You can hop onto the trail at trailheads in Augusta, Hallowell and Gardiner, but we think the best start is in Augusta. This will allow you to enjoy the entire route and see the best scenery. Begin under the Memorial Bridge where you can also park and access a map with information about the trail.
This part of the route is paved, making it easy to navigate. About 1.5-miles into the journey you’ll leave the city and the paved trail will become packed dirt.
A fun fact about the trail is that it’s part of the "East Coast Greenway," which will eventually connect Maine and Florida using trails just like this one all along the way.
The trail allows for any activities as long as they’re not motorized. That means you can hike, walk, cycle, rollerblade or cross-country ski. But don’t limit yourself! Have a unicycle? Try it here!
The route is open all year and it has its own beauty during each different season.
While we love the trail itself, one of the best parts is making your way to the small town of Hallowell which offers lots of shops, restaurants and history. This is also where the trail veers from the actual railroad tracks.
Once you’ve enjoyed some time in Hallowell, continue along the Kennebec River towards Gardiner.
If you’ve arranged things in advance, you can have a friend pick you up. Even better if you’ve parked two cars and can simply hop in and head back to the trail in Augusta.
The Kennebec River Rail Trail is a great way to spend the day. You can learn more about it on Maine Trail Finder. And you can check out the official website here. What are some of your favorite, easier trails? Let us know in the comments so we can put them on our must-do list!
If you're looking for other rail trails, we've got some great options! You'll love these scenic and laid back rail trails in Maine.
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