There's a new trail in downtown Bridgton that everyone in the community can enjoy. We have been working towards this day for years: imagining what could be, working through obstacles, raising over $120,000, finalizing plans, and getting the work done. Now, it’s here, for you and your friends and neighbors and families and everyone who visits Bridgton to enjoy.
The trail has a packed gravel surface, gradual slopes, rest areas to pull off into, a few benches (more will be added), and is six feet wide at its narrowest point. There are two main entrances - one from the Depot Street/Bob Dunning Bridge entrance and one from Willett Road parking area. The one-way length of the trail is 0.7 miles and you will wind your way through a number of forest types along portions of Stevens & Willett Brooks.
The trail is also accessible by public transportation - the Lake Region Explorer (part of the Regional Transportation Program) travels between Portland and Bridgton (with many stops along the way) and will drop you off at the Bridgton Community Center, just across the parking lot from the trailhead. Kiosk signs and websites will be updated to reflect the new trail features.
We believe that everyone should have access to the outdoors. Today, more people can enjoy this community resource than before. While there is always more work to be done and more barriers (physical and otherwise) to break down, for now we’re looking forward to celebrating this new community resource. Please join us on Thursday, August 25th at 10:00am for a ribbon cutting and trail tour.
Thank you to the Town of Bridgton, Maine, the Recreational Trails Program (Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry), and all the individuals, businesses (Athletic Brewing Company, Warren Excavation), partners (Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation, Go Beyond The Fence) and foundations that made this trail a reality.
The only way projects like this happen is thanks to the generosity and support of a community of people who care. Thank you!