QUICK TRAIL FACTS
- Preserve Size: +40 acres
- Trail Mileage: 1.3 miles in network
- Pets: yes
- Difficulty: easy
- Sights: Sandy River, groomed trails
By Sam Shirley
The old Sandy River Golf Course in Chesterville was purchased by new owners and renamed Fairway Fields. In winter, they groom cross country ski trails on the golf course. The trails are dog-friendly and free to use! There are a couple small hills right near the parking area, but the trails are generally flat and well-suited for beginners. The big loop around the course is just under one mile.
The scenery on the snow-covered golf course is beautiful, and I especially enjoyed the section along the river flanked by massive silver maples. Because of how wide the trails are (~4′), they are best for classic skiing. Note that the trails and parking area are generally only maintained on weekends, so if it snows mid-week, you may have to wait a few days until it gets groomed.
Directions: Fairway Fields is located at 154 George Thomas Road in Chesterville. From Farmington Falls: From the village of Farmington Falls, head south 0.3 mile on Route 41. Turn left onto George Thomas Road, and the parking area will be on your left in 0.6 mile. From New Sharon: From the center of New Sharon, head south on Route 134 for 2.1 miles. Bear right onto George Thomas Road, and the parking area will be on your right in 1.5 miles. From Vienna: From the center of Vienna, head north on Route 41 for 7.6 miles. Turn right onto George Thomas Road, and the parking area will be on your left in 0.6 mile.
