This popular trail follows an old rail bed constructed in the 1860s. The rail line was used to transport products to Bangor from the lumber mills near the Stillwater Avenue bridge. Coal for the University of Maine was stored on a spur off the main rail bed, opposite the current University heating plant. The faint patterns of old railroad ties and occasional spikes can be seen on parts of the trail. In 1967, the town built a sewer system and placed pipes under the old rail bed. The pipes were repaired in 2005 and in the process the town created a walking trail along the river. In 2007, trail bridges were added upstream from the water treatment plant. Look for beaver lodges along the river’s edges. Avoid the abundant poison ivy in this area.
Dogs need to be under control of their owners. Please observe the carry-in carry-out policy.
Visit Orono Land Trust online for more information and a printable map or contact:
The best parking and trail access is available at Brownie’s Park, 0.3 miles north of Orono center on ME-16/Bennoch Road.
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Pros: Neat walk overall; scenic river views and good footing. Two trash cans for dog waste. There’s a grassy area with bench close to the small boat launch which is nice.
Cons: No signs along trail to indicate where you are. Much of the trail is walking through private property with visible homes. No option for making a loop other than walking same trail back or walking on the road.