The most difficult section of trail at Baker Forest is the climb from the parking lot to the main trail. The trail here is narrow and steep for about 500 feet, and footing is uneven in places. Once you reach the blue loop, the trail is relatively flat, with gentle changes in elevation. There are a few rocks and roots to step over here and there. The top (northernmost) sections of the orange and blue loops, as well as the white connector in between, follow an old woods road which is broad and smooth underfoot.
Baker Forest is a great choice if you are looking for a quiet walk that’s “off the beaten path,” where you are less likely to encounter others on your visit. This 165-acre forest property, owned and managed by Coastal Rivers, was donated by Bob and Margaret Baker of Newcastle in December 2003. The Bakers’ generosity ensures that this outstanding and diverse forest community will be available for present and future generations to enjoy.
As you wander through the forest, keep an eye out for moose tracks, deer sign, beaver activity, and spring ephemeral flowers such as trailing arbutus. There are lovely stone walls throughout the preserve, and toward the south end of the blue loop are signs of a historic cattle pound. Beyond the orange loop, if you venture out onto the unmaintained portion of the trail, you’ll find some impressively large hemlocks and white pines.
Also of interest is the site of a “microburst” storm several years ago that took down an impressive swath of trees at the start of the blue loop (heading in a counter-clockwise direction). Equally impressive is evidence of the herculean efforts of staff and volunteers to clear the trail!
The preserve is located right along River Road in Newcastle less than a mile and a half south of Route 1. As you head south on River Road, you will see a small cemetery and then Kiln Road on your left. The preserve is on your right soon after with a small pull-off for two to three cars.
