Looking for a short, shady trail where kids can cross bridges, explore the woods, and walk beside the Presumpscot River? Hawkes Preserve in Gorham packs plenty of variety into an easy family hike.
This approximately 1-mile nature loop winds through hemlock forest and follows part of the historic Cumberland and Oxford Canal towpath, with nearly 2,000 feet of trail running alongside the Presumpscot River. Small streams, wooden bridges, river views, and changing terrain give kids plenty to discover without requiring a long hike.
It’s an especially nice option for a warm summer day when you’re looking for a quick adventure beneath the trees.
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Trail Experience
Hawkes Preserve is a 41-acre preserve owned and managed by the Presumpscot Regional Land Trust. The approximately 1-mile loop travels through a cool hemlock forest, beside the Presumpscot River, and along a portion of the historic Cumberland and Oxford Canal.
Begin your hike from the small parking area at the end of Tow Path Road in Gorham. From here, the trail leads into the woods and soon brings you alongside the remains of the old canal.
The Presumpscot River is another highlight. Nearly 2,000 feet of the trail follows a beautiful stretch of the river, giving families plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water from the trail while remaining beneath the shade of the forest.
For kids, the small bridges crossing streams along the route help turn a simple walk into more of an adventure. Crossing each bridge gives younger hikers another little destination to look forward to and adds variety to this relatively short loop.
Along the trail you’ll find:
- Hemlock forest
- Views of the Presumpscot River
- Nearly 2,000 feet of riverside trail
- The historic Cumberland and Oxford Canal
- A wide section along the old canal towpath
- Small streams
- Bridges to cross
- Roots and rocks along the forest trail
- Plenty of shade during the warmer months
Once you leave the wider canal section, expect a more traditional woodland trail. The path becomes narrower and more uneven, with roots, rocks, and some slopes greater than 10 percent. Mud can also be common during wetter parts of the year.
One important thing to know before visiting: the trail has recently been rerouted and no longer passes by Great Falls Elementary School. Older trail descriptions and maps may still reference the school as an access point.
Pay attention to the current trail signs and blazes as you make your way around the loop. You’ll see No Trespassing signs near portions of the preserve boundary. These mark neighboring private property rather than indicating that the preserve trail itself is closed. Follow the marked trail rather than continuing beyond the preserve boundary.
The preserve is popular for:
- Hiking
- Walking
- Running
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
- Nature exploration
There is no hunting permitted within Hawkes Preserve.
Trail Details
Location: End of Tow Path Road, Gorham, Maine
Distance: Approximately 1-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Uses: Hiking, walking, running, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
Surface: Dirt and natural forest floor
Stroller Friendly: The full loop is not stroller friendly
Facilities: No restrooms
Parking: Small trailhead parking area with room for approximately 4–5 vehicles
Dogs: Permitted
Fees: Free
Hunting: Not permitted
Managed by: Presumpscot Regional Land Trust
Tips for Families
Ages: This is a great trail for families with younger hikers because the loop is short while still offering plenty to see along the way.
Footwear: Sneakers or hiking shoes work well during dry weather. Waterproof footwear may be helpful during mud season or after periods of heavy rain.
Season: Hawkes Preserve can be enjoyed throughout the year, but its shady hemlock forest makes it especially appealing during summer. Fall brings changing foliage, while winter opens the trail to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Dogs: Dogs are permitted. As always, be prepared to clean up after your pet and follow posted preserve rules.
Parking: The Tow Path Road parking area is small, with space for approximately 4–5 vehicles. Consider having families carpool if you’re planning to meet a larger group here.
Navigation: Pay close attention to trail signs, particularly near the preserve boundary. No Trespassing signs indicate areas of neighboring private property. The trail has also recently been rerouted so that it no longer passes Great Falls Elementary School, despite the school still appearing in some older trail information.
Pack: Water, bug spray, snacks, and waterproof footwear during wetter seasons.
Kids who enjoy bridges, streams, rivers, and looking for interesting things in the woods will find plenty to keep them moving along this short loop.
Why Families Love It
Hawkes Preserve is a good reminder that a family hike doesn’t have to be long to feel like an adventure.
In about a mile, kids can walk through a shady forest, cross bridges over small streams, follow an old canal towpath, and spend a significant portion of the hike beside the Presumpscot River. There’s enough variety to keep younger hikers interested without committing your family to several miles on the trail.
The historic towpath also adds another layer to the experience. Instead of simply walking through the woods, you’re following a route connected to an earlier chapter of the area’s history.
For families looking for a short trail in Gorham, especially on a warm summer day when shade is welcome, Hawkes Preserve is an easy one to add to your list.
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 looking for a short walk with younger kids, a shady summer trail, or another place to explore the Presumpscot River watershed, Hawkes Preserve offers an easy adventure close to home.
👉 View the full calendar of family events happening this week:
Lake Region Kids Calendar Event Calendar
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Read More
- What To Do With Kids Near Sebago Lake This Month
- Family Friendly Trails in Gorham, ME
- Lake Region Kids Calendar Local Directory
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