Looking for an easy riverside trail where kids can explore, throw rocks into the water, and feel like they’ve discovered a hidden corner of nature? Cummings Preserve in Gorham offers a peaceful walk beneath the trees, a historic towpath, and one of the easiest river access points in the area.
Whether you’re introducing young hikers to the trails, cooling off on a warm summer day, or checking another preserve off your family’s bucket list, Cummings Preserve is a wonderful destination for families who enjoy simple outdoor adventures.
This trail is also one of the featured locations in the 2026 Presumpscot Regional Land Trust Summer Trail Challenge, making it a fun stop for families working toward completing their Trail Challenge passport.
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Trail Experience
Cummings Preserve may only cover five acres, but it packs a surprising amount into a short walk. The trail follows the Presumpscot River just downstream from Dundee Dam, combining quiet forest, gentle terrain, and beautiful waterfront views into an outing that’s manageable for nearly every age.
The trail begins near the Dundee Dam parking area before following Sappi’s canoe portage trail into the preserve. From there, the route becomes a lollipop loop with one side following the remains of the historic Oxford-Cumberland Towpath and the other tracing the edge of the Presumpscot River.
The terrain is mostly flat with only a few gentle rises, making this one of the easier family hikes around Gorham. Wide dirt paths and relatively smooth footing let younger hikers build confidence without tackling steep climbs or rocky scrambles.
The highlight for our family came at the river access point. We couldn’t resist kicking off our shoes and dipping into the cool water along the shoreline. It became the perfect place to slow down, skip rocks, and enjoy a quiet moment by the river before heading back.
Along the trail you’ll find:
- Peaceful forest walking
- Views of the Presumpscot River
- Historic sections of the Oxford-Cumberland Towpath
- A river access point that’s perfect for cooling off on hot days
- Opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife
- Plenty of shade during the summer
The preserve is popular for:
- Hiking
- Walking
- Trail running
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
Keep an eye out for:
- Great blue herons along the river
- Songbirds in the forest canopy
- River wildlife
- Wildflowers throughout the growing season
Because the trail is short and relatively easy, it’s an excellent option for families with preschool and elementary-aged children who are building hiking confidence.
Trail Details
Location: Dundee Dam Road, Gorham, Maine
Distance: Approximately 1 mile loop
Elevation Gain: Approximately 56 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Uses: Hiking, walking, running, fishing, swimming, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
Surface: Packed dirt, forest floor, and riverside paths
Stroller Friendly: No
Facilities: No restrooms
Parking: Parking area at Dundee Dam
Managed by: Presumpscot Regional Land Trust
Part of the 2026 Summer Trail Challenge
Cummings Preserve is one of six featured locations in the 2026 Presumpscot Regional Land Trust Summer Trail Challenge.
Families can pick up a Trail Challenge passport, visit each preserve, learn a fun fact at every stop, and earn a commemorative prize after completing all six locations. The featured Trail Challenge stop at Cummings Preserve is located at the river access point, making it easy to combine your visit with a little time by the water.
Learn more about the challenge here:
https://www.prlt.org/summer-trail-challenge-2026
Tips for Families
Ages: Great for preschoolers through adults
Footwear: Sneakers work well during dry conditions. Water shoes are a great idea if you plan to explore the river.
Season: Beautiful year-round, with cool shade during summer and colorful foliage in autumn.
Dogs: Allowed on leash.
Pack: Water, bug spray, towels if your kids like playing along the river, and a change of shoes just in case.
Kids who enjoy throwing rocks, splashing along the shoreline, spotting wildlife, or simply wandering through the woods will especially enjoy Cummings Preserve.
Why Families Love It
Sometimes the best family outings don’t require a mountain summit or miles of hiking.
Cummings Preserve offers something refreshingly simple: an easy walk through the woods that ends beside a beautiful river. Parents appreciate the gentle terrain, while kids love having a destination where they can safely explore the shoreline, cool off, and spend time in nature at their own pace.
For families looking for a short adventure that feels rewarding without being exhausting, Cummings Preserve is an easy place to return to again and again.
See It For Yourself
Plan Your Next Family Adventure
Before you head out, be sure to check the Lake Region Kids Calendar to see what else is happening nearby — from library story times and community events to seasonal activities and other family-friendly trails.
Whether you’re completing the Summer Trail Challenge, looking for an easy riverside walk, or simply hoping to spend an hour outdoors with your kids, Cummings Preserve is a wonderful place to explore.
👉 View the full calendar of family events happening this week:
Lake Region Kids Calendar Event Calendar
👉 Explore more family-friendly places around Sebago Lake:
Lake Region Kids Calendar Local Directory
👉 Get weekly local family fun delivered to your inbox every Thursday morning:
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Read More
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- Family Friendly Trails in Gorham, ME
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