Stevens Brook Trail, Lower Falls to Long Lake

October 01, 2017

Stevens Brook Trail, Lower Falls to Long Lake

The old coffin factory still stands on the shore of Stevens Brook.

BRIDGTON, Maine - September 28, 2017 - This is a great hike that is often overlooked in favor of the area of Pondicherry Park. This part of the Stevens Brook Trail starts beside the Shell gas station across from Rite Aid on Rt. 302. You can see the remains of the railroad trestle that carried the Harrison spur. The Stevens Brook provides wildlife habitat for a variety of Maine creatures. As you walk the trail, look for evidence of beavers, moose, and mink. Scan the ground for the tracks of raccoon and deer. Listen to the variety of bird songs. Enjoy the rich vegetation that lines the banks and helps keep the river clean.

If you look closely, you are likely to be transported back to an era when Bridgton was a thriving mill town. Granite foundations, turbines, and railroad tracks indicate that the Stevens Brook was once an important source of power for the mill industry.

The Lakes Environmental Association offers guided walks on the natural and cultural history along the Stevens Brook Trail throughout the year. Visit their calendar of events for complete program listings.

Sunday, October 01, 2017

Caroline, pooch Penny and I finally covered the entire Stevens Brook trail from Highland Lake to Long Lake today. It is a beautiful and interesting hiking stroll, but bit confusing at a few points however. The trail starts at Highland Road, where there is a parking area, and the path starts to the right of the red house beside a red house adjacent to the parking lot. You can also start from the small pedestrian bridge at the dam. The trail ends behind the power station on Powerhouse Road.

FMI