River Elf Trail - Opening August 23rd!
Join us as we celebrate the official opening of our new River Elf Trail on Saturday, August 23rd at 10 am!
In June 2024, RRCT and Maine Farmland Trust (MFT) partnered with Elizabeth and John Randall to protect their 150-acre Willow Farm on Cobbs Bridge Road in New Gloucester with a conservation easement. This easement ensures that the farm will remain in agricultural use while also providing for the development of a public trail to the Royal River.
Over the past several months RRCT’s volunteer Trail Crew has dedicated substantial time and effort creating the beautiful 2-mile River Elf Trail winding through mature forests to a scenic stretch along the banks of the Royal River before looping back to the trailhead and parking area. The name River Elf was chosen for this magical property in honor of the ‘river elves’ of Wabanaki lore – infamous tricksters that like to cause mischief upon unsuspecting people.
As with all our projects, this trail was made possible through the dedicated efforts of numerous volunteers and the generous donors who helped fund this conservation project.
The ceremony will begin at 10 am with remarks from the landowner and RRCT, followed by an official ribbon cutting to mark the trail’s opening. Afterward, guests are invited to join a guided 2-mile hike along the new trail, where we’ll explore its woodlands, wildlife, and beautiful views of the Royal River. Visitors should expect a moderate hike over uneven and sometimes steep terrain. Dogs are welcome but due to sensitive habitat and active farmland areas, they must be kept on leash at all times.
Parking: There is a small 4-car parking lot at 400 Cobbs Bridge Rd, New Gloucester. Once full, park on the road shoulder of Cobbs Bridge Rd, on the same side of the road as the parking lot.
This event is free and open to the public. Bring your friends and neighbors as we enjoy this wonderful place together!
Registration is requested so we can plan accordingly!
