Inland Woods, Pine Ridge Trails, Waterville

This trail system was once more expansive, but lost acreage to a solar array at the top of the hill. This means that, in winter 2024, at least, most maps of the area were a bit out of date. Nonetheless, the current trail system is still easy to follow, with plenty of trail signs. The trails do seem a bit fluid and changeable—and the land trust says more paths are in the works—so I’m sure my Google map will be obsolete soon!

There are two main trailheads, one near the dog park at the end of Norman Street and one at the back of the hospital tucked away behind a shed. From the hospital, you’ll start by walking gently uphill to the ridge. In about 0.4 miles, you’ll begin to see glittering solar panels and you might see or hear small planes landing or taking off from the nearby airport. One of the paths then follows the edge of the field for about 0.6 miles in a southerly direction, toward Rummels Field and the dog park. Other paths head back to the hospital down the hill to make small loops, all under a mile.

If you head toward Rummels Field, you can do longer loops through the forest, the largest is about 1.3 miles. Again, from the dog park to the solar array, you’ll be walking up a moderate incline.

The walking overall is moderate, with rocks, roots, and occasional muddy sections — the usual Maine woods fare!

Directions: You can find one trailhead at Rummels Field and the Waterville dog park, at the end of Norman Street. You can also park at the hospital trailhead. After turning into the hospital from Route 11 (Kennedy Memorial Drive), you should make your way to the back corner lot, in the southeast end of the hospital campus. Tucked behind a shed is the trailhead kiosk, maps, and other information.