Trail Network
Run of River will include an estimated 50 miles of four-season, non-motorized trails for walking, running, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

There are currently three trails downtown near the gorge—the Debe Park River Walk, the Philbrick Trails, and the Heselton Street Trail. The Philbrick and Heselton Street trails will need to be expanded and further developed to meet recreational trail standards. Main Street Skowhegan is currently pursuing grant opportunities to develop a trail master plan for the downtown area. 

Debe Park River Walk
This ADA-accessible paved riverside trail provides outstanding scenic views. It runs from Mount Pleasant Street (near the pedestrian bridge) to Joyce Street, where it connects with the canoe portage site, the Philbrick Trails, and the River’s Edge Bike Park.  River access trails will be added, giving whitewater park users and spectators easy access to the river from this trail.

Philbrick Trails
This 34-acre scenic parcel features upland and riparian wildlife habitat, 1,200 feet of river frontage, and a network of trails for non-motorized use. Though currently usable for walking, these trails need to be extended and better developed to be suitable for four-season use. Plans are in the works to add mountain bike trails.

Heselton Street Trails
Located a short walk from the gorge, the Heselton Street Trails wind through a white pine forest. This loop system is accessible next to the Margaret Chase Smith School or from Memorial Field at the end of East Maple Street. There are 119 wooded acres just north of these trails that would make it possible for significant expansion. Maine Water owns this property and is open to a discussion of responsible trail development. The Somerset Trails Collaborative is pursuing the opportunity to design a single-track mountain bike trail network on this parcel. 

Additional Trails
There are also plans to add a trail from downtown to the Marti Stevens Trails (located behind the Marti Stevens Center on West Front Street).

Learn more about other outdoor recreation investment in Skowhegan just beyond downtown.