3.2
(20)
63
hikers
Shaker Woods Reserve Trail
00:49
3.16km
10m
Hiking
The Shaker Woods Reserve Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a quiet pine forest in Alfred, Maine. You'll follow a lollipop-style loop that borders Hay Brook and the Middle Branch of the Mousam River, providing serene water views. Expect a mix of dirt and forest floor, with boardwalks helping you navigate any boggy sections, especially in spring and summer. Keep an eye out for deer, songbirds, and other wildlife as you enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
This 2.0-mile (3.2 km) route is rated easy, with a minimal 41 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, and can be completed in about 48 minutes. The reserve is open from dawn to dusk, and leashed dogs are permitted, making it a great option for a family outing or a quick nature walk. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, especially if you visit during wetter months, to handle any damp terrain.
Spanning 34 acres, the Shaker Woods Reserve provides a valuable natural escape, even if some initial sections are near private yards. Beyond hiking, the area is known for its connection to local waterways, offering opportunities for canoeists to combine a paddle on the Mousam River with a walk. The presence of geocaches also adds a fun, interactive layer to your visit.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
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1.53 km
Hay Brook overview
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
3.16 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.02 km
Surfaces
3.02 km
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Friday 10 July
31°C
19°C
27 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail?
The trail is located in Alfred, Maine. While specific parking lot details aren't provided, it's generally accessible as a public reserve. Look for designated parking areas near the trailhead, which is often found at the entrance to the reserve.
Is the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, leashed dogs are permitted on the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail. Please ensure your dog remains on a leash and that you clean up after them to help keep the preserve enjoyable for everyone.
What is the best time of year to hike the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail?
The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, ferns, and berry bushes, with active wildlife. Fall brings beautiful foliage, and winter provides a peaceful, snow-covered landscape. It's open from dawn to dusk daily.
Are there any permits or entrance fees for Shaker Woods Reserve?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail. It is a public preserve, open for foot traffic only from dawn to dusk.
Is the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail suitable for beginners or families?
Absolutely! This trail is rated as easy and is perfect for beginners, families, and hikers of all skill levels. It features a relatively flat and smooth path with no long or steep climbs.
What is the terrain like on the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail?
The terrain is varied but generally easy. You'll encounter a gentle slope leading into a pine forest, a boardwalk crossing swampy wetlands, and sections that merge with an old skid road. The path is primarily dirt and forest floor, winding through a quiet wooded area.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see on the trail?
The trail offers natural beauty, passing alongside Hay Brook and the Middle Branch of the Mousam River. The wooded environment is rich with ferns and berry bushes. Keep an eye out for wildlife; deer tracks are often visible, and you might hear songbirds, red squirrels, and chipmunks.
Are there any specific viewpoints or notable features along the route?
Yes, a notable feature is the Hay Brook overview. The reserve also serves as a connector for canoeists, allowing them to combine a paddle trip on the Mousam River and Estes Lake with a hike. Additionally, the preserve is home to a series of geocaches, adding an interactive element for those interested.
How long does it typically take to hike the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail?
The entire loop is approximately 1.9 to 2 miles round trip. Most hikers can complete it in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on their pace.
Is the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail a loop?
Yes, the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail is a loop trail, offering a continuous path through the preserve without needing to retrace your steps.
What are the operating hours for the Shaker Woods Reserve Trail?
The Shaker Woods Reserve Trail is open from dawn to dusk for foot traffic only. Please plan your visit within these hours.
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