Bristol Recreational trail is relatively flat and gentle. What prevents us from rating this trail a solid “green” in terms of difficulty is a section of trail with many exposed roots that make for a very uneven trail surface. This section is right about at the halfway point, so could be avoided if one were to walk to that point and then turn around (starting from either end of the trail). There are also three bridges over streams that require one step up and one step down. A couple benches at points along the shore offer a place to rest and take in the view.
This gem of a walking path starts at Route 130 just south of the Bristol Consolidated School, leads back to the Pemaquid River estuary, then returns to the highway just north of the school near Lupine Road. It is about .75 miles long long and is an easy 30-minute walk. There is a short segment on school property that was designed to be handicap accessible. Preserve signs adjacent to Route 130 are posted at both ends of the trail.
The Bristol Recreational Trail crosses town-owned property and school property and is maintained by Coastal Rivers. It was created in 2006 by the Town of Bristol and Pemaquid Watershed Association (now Coastal Rivers), with assistance from the Maine Conservation Corps and funding from the Maine Department of Conservation Recreational Trails Program.
The trail features beautiful views of the tidal Pemaquid River, a brook flowing through a very rocky bed, some of the largest and oldest red oaks around, and fine old stone walls. In early spring, it’s fun to see clusters of spectaculary strange skunk cabbage flowers blooming along the streambeds.
From Damariscotta, take Bristol Rd (Rt. 130) about 10 miles to the Bristol Consolidated School at 2153 Bristol Rd. on the right. Look for the parking lot and kiosk just south of the school. When school is not in session, visitors may also park in the school lot and access the trail from off the right (north) side of the lot. Public parking in the school lot during regular school hours is prohibited.
