Posted on September 1, 2015 and last updated on January 14, 2023

Hutchinson Pond, Manchester

QUICK TRAIL FACTS

  • Preserve Size: 81 acres
  • Trail Mileage: 1.5 miles round trip
  • Pets: yes
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Sights: pond, meadow, woods, wetlands

The walk here includes views of the pond, which is probably gorgeous when the autumn colors are in full force (they were just starting to turn when I was here in September 2015). The 81-acre property, which includes large fields, is protected by the Kennebec land Trust.

Of the two loops, Kinglet is a bit easier, as it’s wide and flat. The Wood Duck Trail, which is also fairly easy, has views through trees of the pond and marsh. If you do both loops, the walk is roughly 1.5 miles.

Note: The parking lot is plowed in the winter.

Directions: From Manchester: Take Pond Road south for 3.5 miles; turn left onto Collins Road. Take the first right onto Benson Road; in 0.9 mile the parking lot will be on the left. From Hallowell: Take Central Street west for 1.7 miles; turn left onto Shady Lane. In about 0.4 mile take the first right onto Outlet Road and continue onto Bog Farm Road and then Collins Road. Turn left onto Benson Road; in 0.9 mile the parking lot will be on the left. From Brown’s Corner in West Gardiner: Take the Litchfield-Hallowell Road toward Hallowell. After 1.8 miles, turn left onto Benson Road. In 1.6 miles the parking lot will be on the right.

Let me know if you have any trail updates or corrections!