QUICK TRAIL FACTS
- Preserve Size: 233 acres
- Trail Mileage: 3.2 miles in network
- Pets: yes
- Difficulty: moderate
- Sights: lake, cave, tree perch with views, spring
By Sam Shirley
Located on land owned by Nickerson Lake Wilderness Preservation, Inc. on the mostly undeveloped south shore of Nickerson Lake in New Limerick, this unique trail system contains two loops which can only be reached by boat, or across the ice in winter. It is an approximately 1.5 mile paddle from the boat launch to the landing at the trailhead. A short distance up the trail is a trail register, and shortly beyond that is where the two loops split. Both loops are marked with flagging tape and are well maintained. There are also small locator maps at each intersection.
The 1.4-mile eastern loop is called the Mountain Loop. The trail ascends gradually as it makes its way to the low summit of Crescent Mountain. Before reaching the wooded peak (going clockwise), the trail passes a feature called “Pine Tree Perch.” This rickety series of ladders and platforms allowed us to climb to near the top of a white pine, where there were good views to the north and west. Unfortunately, the tree is dying, and the perch will likely not be able to be used for much longer. The trail also passes a small boulder cave, called “Secret Cave,” near the top of the mountain.
The 1.8-mile western loop is called Lake’s End Loop. One side of the loop traverses a hillside above the lake, while the other side passes along the shore. There are a few nice views across the lake, including one spot with two Adirondack chairs to sit in. The loop also passes a cold spring, great for refiling water bottles!
Directions: From the west: From the New Limerick Town Office, head east on Drews Lake Road. In 2.8 miles, turn right onto Crescent Park Road. After 0.3 mile, bear right onto Aspen Lane. In 0.6 mile, the boat launch will be on your right. The trailhead boat landing is located about 2/3 of the way down the lake along the south shore. It is about 1,000 feet past a large rope swing.
From the east: From Route 2A in Houlton, head west on Drews Lake Road. In 0.7 mile, turn left onto Crescent Park Road. After 0.3 mile, bear right onto Aspen Lane. In 0.6 mile, the boat launch will be on your right. The trailhead boat landing is located about 2/3 of the way down the lake along the south shore. It is about 1,000 feet past a large rope swing.
