This is an extensive network of trails ranging from easy paved pathways and woods roads to to more challenging single track and biking trails. The diversity and scale of the network means that recreation opportunities are available to all ages and ability levels. Campus Recreation maintains a groomed network of ski trails in the winter months.
Allowed recreation is for walkers, joggers, cyclists, mountain bikers, skiers, snowshoers, and equestrians. Please be considerate and avoid walking or letting pets on groomed trails in the winter.
The DeMeritt University Forest was named for Dwight B. Demeritt in 1971 in recognition of his work to procure the land for the University of Maine. Four tracts of government land near UMaine(ca. 2,000 acres) when it was acquired by lease in 1939 and then by deed in 1955. The DeMeritt University Forest has played a key role in education, research, demonstrations, and training of students. It is a haven for wildlife and members of the University community.
Please watch Facebook for trail updates. You don’t need to have a Facebook account to view our Facebook page.
Please report downed branches, general damage or disrepair to Eric Swett at (207) 581-3485 or ernest.swett@umit.maine.edu. Please report any misuse of the trails or any vandalism to Campus Recreation at (207) 581-1082 or UMaine Police at (207) 581-4040.
Visit Campus Recreation online for more information and a printable map or contact:
University of Maine, Campus RecreationThe DeMeritt Forest can be accessed at several points.
Stillwater Avenue: There is limited parking available on Stillwater Avenue, 0.5 miles from the traffic light at the intersection with College Avenue. Additional parking and access can be found further along Stillwater Avenue at University Forest Road and the entrance to the Old Town Elementary School. After turning into the entrance to the school at the traffic light, turn immediately right to a gravelly area. Park but do not block the gate.
University Farm Road: There is street side parking on the University Farm Road (dirt road), which leaves College Ave 0.2 miles from the Stillwater Avenue intersection and traffic light. The bike path and other trails leave from the road on the left and right approximately a half mile up the road before going up the hill to the farm.
University Campus: The DeMeritt Forest trail system can be accessed from Hilltop Parking lot on the University of Maine Campus. Park at the back of the lot near its northern end where a gated dirt road provides access to the network. The trail system can also be accessed at the bottom of Hilltop Road, at the southern end of Hilltop parking lot, and from the recreation center.
Other Access: The bike path can also be accessed from the corner of Perkins Avenue and Jefferson Street in Old Town or from the University Park Road off Collage Avenue; however, public parking does not exist at these locations.
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