Bishop Cardinal's Reserve (1.2 mile network, easy): The 69 acre reserve is home to native mammal species, interior song birds, and a variety of plant species. There are two internal loops, the red loop (0.5 miles) and the blue loop (0.6 miles). Observant hikers can find sign of black bear, moose, deer, fisher and more. Managing for black bear habitat is a priority of the GLLT on this Reserve. The two small brooks are ideal places to look for plants or to sit and listen/watch for birds and animals. The blue and red trails travel through a northern hardwood forest comprised of beech, sugar maple, red maple, white and yellow birch, aspen and red oak. A small group of aged hemlock tress can be visited along the Blue trail. These impressively tall and large diameter trees are some of the largest in the county. When among them it does not take much to close your eyes and see a time when these giants were left to their own devices. The red trail includes a short connecting trail to Lord Hill and Mine trail, maintained by the Chatham Trail Association. The Lord Hill Trail is moderately difficult due to length and steeper grades. This trail includes a fine view from the ledge overlook and is a favorite for families with children, who love to explore the old mica/feldspar/quartz mines.
Wilson Wing Moose Pond Bog Preserve - Sucker Brook Trail (0.4 miles one-way, easy): The 32 acres of wetland and forested areas of the preserve offer unique opportunities for animal and plant observation. The trail parallels the edge of the bog for a short distance, where Northern Pitcher Plants and Lady Slippers can be seen from the trail. Greater Lovell Land Trust has constructed a self-guided nature interpretative trail for all ages. There is also a viewing platform that overlooks the entire bog, where it is common to see moose, beaver, and a large variety of bird species. Spring birding, winter mammal tracking, and “owling” are favored activities. A section of the trail parallels Sucker Brook where, brilliant Cardinal flowers bloom in mid August-mid September. Wildlife signs are abundant including bear, fisher, deer and coyote. If you are lucky, you can see bear prints, coyote scat, owl pellets and much more. The preserve is host to dozens of native mushroom species and is a favorite local destination for mushroom enthusiasts.
Hiking, picnicking, and nature observation are allowed on the both conserved lands. Hunting is allowed only on the Bishop Cardinal Reserve. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also permitted on both properties, but the trails are not groomed. Camping, fires, motorized vehicles/ATVs, mountain bikes, and cutting/removal of vegetation is not permitted on either property.
Visit Greater Lovell Land Trust online for more information and a printable map or contact:
From ME Route 5, take West Lovell Road for 2.7 miles and then veer left on Foxboro Road. Continue on Foxboro Road another 2 miles, and then take a right on Horseshoe Pond Road. Travel 0.9 on the well groomed dirt road and park along the right hand shoulder of the road in the vicinity of the kiosk and trailhead. Additional parking can utilize the boaters parking area 100 yards beyond the kiosk at the south end of Horseshoe Pond. You will see trails signs for both Wilson Wing Moose Pond Bog Preserve (on the right) and Bishop Cardinal's Reserve (on the left). Head back down the road to access the trails.
Success! A new password has been emailed to you.
