Marti Stevens Trail, Skowhegan

The trail is named after Marti Stevens, an inspirational educator who founded an alternative education center called Cross Roads for teenage mothers. This center was eventually absorbed into the public school system and renamed the Marti Stevens Center. Today it offers alternative education to high school students in Skowhegan.

I found the Marti Stevens trail a bit difficult to find as there were no obvious signs for it. And then when I did, I felt as if I were trespassing! But the trail is open to the public. And it has interesting informative panels along the trail, geared toward educating people about the history, ecology, and economy of the Kennebec River and its importance to the region.

You’ll find the little path tucked away behind the current location of the Marti Stevens Learning Center, in a long, low white building. Look for a little shed and picnic table, the trailhead is nearby. The start of the trail passes a fun-looking challenge course, but signs warns visitors to not use the equipment. The trail continues down a slop toward the river, eventually reaching a canoe launch and some canoes on a rack.

At the boat launch, the trail turns to the left and continues along the river, which is also where information panels start popping up. This section of the trail is peaceful and pretty. Some of the trail may feel a bit overgrown and neglected, but overall, it is easy to stay on course. There are a few ups and downs.

Directions: The trail begins behind the Marti Stevens Learning Center, off Norridgewock Road, on the opposite side of the street from the Skowhegan school compound. Walk behind the main building and look for trail next to a little shed.