The weather is warming and we’re feeling ready to get outside in the sunshine, but spring is a sensitive time of year for trails and surrounding habitats. Here are some tips for protecting the trails you use:

• Do more by doing less! Activities like running, biking, and ATV use** have a higher impact during mud season. Tires sink into the mud, leaving deep ruts and causing water to pool up. Running impacts the trail more than walking because of the force of your body’s weight coming down on the trail. When the ground is wet, go for lower impact activities.
• Walk single file in the middle of the trail. Bring footwear to match trail conditions. Stick to rocks whenever possible and go through muddy sections to help preserve the natural environment of the trail. Going around muddy areas widens the trail, causes erosion, and negatively impacts roots and vegetation. So, have fun and get muddy!
• Get involved! Want to try your hand at trail work? Become a Trail Adopter or attend a Volunteer Community Work Day. Our first Work Day of the season is Saturday, April 22. More information about Work Days can be found here.

** ATV’s and dirt bikes are allowed on multiuse trails in our management area. Vehicles must be registered in Maine, and you must stay on “Multiple Use” designated trails only (Cedar, Norman Mill, Notch, Wheel, and Great Marsh). View Trail Map.

While we currently don’t post seasonal closures, we do ask that folks wait until the surface firms up a bit more before coming out for higher impact activities. Again, spring is a highly sensitive time of year for our habitats and trails.

Neighboring landowners may choose to close certain trails to specific uses; always respect posted trailhead and road signage.

Note that dirt bikes/motor driven cycles are NOT allowed on neighboring York Water District trails and ATV’s require an additional permit, only available to residents of the towns served by York and Kittery Water Districts.

Last modified: March 20, 2024