Posted in Maine December 04, 2020 by Michelle

For Tons Of Active Options Check Out Maine’s 28-Mile Aroostook Valley Trail Network

If you’ve been a reader for even a short time you know how much we love a good trip outdoors! Hiking trails, walking routes, and just about anything else that includes fresh air make for a perfectly great weekend for us. While any distance will do, lately we’ve been loving the destinations that offer lots of different trails and activities. This network, located a bit off the beaten path, is tons of fun to enjoy with friends and family.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

Welcome to the Aroostook Valley Trail which connects the towns of Presque Isle, Caribou, Washburn, Woodland, and New Sweden.

The rail trail is named after the railroad bed first created in 1910 by a local lumber magnate. The tracks were intended to take logs to his sawmill in Presque Isle sawmill.

Today, the route runs for more than 28 miles connecting some of the most beautiful towns in the northeastern part of the state.

The route features well-manicured and cared for crushed rock trails, which is great for tons of different activities.

It's most common to see folks cycling, but walking, running and even horseback riding can be done here as well.

And when the snow arrives it's a little slice of heaven for those with sleds or ATVs.

To access the route there are two good places to park. In Presque Isle, head to ME-1 (or, Main Street) where you'll see the parking area south of the bridge on the Aroostook River. You can also begin in Washburn where you can find parking at the Washburn Clubhouse off of Route 164.

The route begins by following the south bank of the Aroostook River. About five miles from the start the trail crosses the river before following the north riverbank for another five miles. Here it connects to the Bangor & Aroostook Trail in Washburn. From here you'll have some choices about which direction you head so be sure to follow the signs.

The Aroostook Valley Trail Network is fairly remote and visitors should be prepared to have a backcountry experience. While we love animals, pets are not permitted on the trail. To learn more check out Maine Trail Finder.

For another quiet outdoor experience, check out the Porter Preserve White Loop Trail. It offers views of a hidden Maine beach that you’ll probably have all to yourself.

Address: Aroostook Valley Trail, Mapleton, ME, USA