Shaw Cherry Hill Farm, Gorham

The crowds were out on a relatively warmish Saturday on these wide, smooth paths. Puppies galore! The popularity of this wonderful trail system, which edges a sweep of fields before making a couple of loops in an old forest, seems to indicate a big need for more universally accessible trails in beautiful areas.

The Shaw Brothers Family Foundation finished the trails in 2019. The 2.7 miles or so in the network, which are maintained by the town, are mostly flat and well marked with signs. Someone with a knack for the chainsaw has created a family of bears and other animals that pop up (and take naps) along the trail system. You can also rest on rough but comfortable benches made of felled trees. The trailhead kiosk has a map with trail lengths.

On a Saturday afternoon in spring, the large parking area (big enough for maybe 40 cars or so) was nearly filled. Older people, younger people, kids on bikes, people with strollers, and dog walkers were all out. But it didn’t feel that crowded, since the trail system is stretched out over the 258 or so acres. Ideally, every town would have a large park and a trail system like this so that everyone, no matter their walking ability, could get outside for a stroll through nature. I know these kind of trails are pricey to build, but everyone loves them.

Directions: The parking lot is located on Main Street in Gorham, Maine, next to Sebago Brewing Company. Good for a refresher after your walk!