Kiosk at the start of the new accessible trail at Keyes Woods Preserve

Expanding accessibility with a new trail at Keyes Woods Preserve

Expanding accessibility with a new trail at Keyes Woods Preserve

The brand-new 0.3-mile accessible trail at Keyes Woods Preserve in Bristol is officially complete!

Whether you use a wheelchair, push a stroller, or simply prefer a smooth, gentle surface for a stroll through the forest, this new pathway was built with you in mind. Designed to meet or exceed Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) standards for forest trail accessibility, it opens up a quiet, hemlock-shaded stretch of woodland for all visitors to enjoy.

The trail loops from the van-accessible parking area and winds through the woods, pausing at an overlook high above a murmuring stream where a sturdy bench invites visitors to sit.

bench along the accessible trail at Keyes Woods Preserve

With the opening of the new trail, Coastal Rivers now stewards three fully accessible trails across our service area – including the Rhoda and Lee Cohen River Trail in Damariscotta and the trail at Castner Brook Community Forest that opened in Fall of 2025.

Expanding universal access across more towns in our region is a reflection of our core organizational values: striving to be welcoming, caring, trustworthy, and adaptable.

The project also brings us another step closer to realizing our broader Strategic Framework. One of our main priorities is to broaden public access by actively working to reduce physical, informational, and cultural barriers across our lands. We want everyone to have access to and feel genuinely welcomed on our trails.

This trail was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Keyes brothers.

Plan your visit

Ready to experience the tranquil forest and new accessible pathway at Keyes Woods for yourself? Find a trail map and details here.

To discover our other trails in the Damariscotta region, accessible or otherwise, explore our interactive trail finder. We can’t wait to see you out on the trail!

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