Hiking the Hidden Knoll Trail, part of the Northern Headwaters Preserve in Montville
Northern Headwaters Preserve is part of the larger Sheepscot Headwaters Trail Network, a group of three conserved properties located in Montville. It lies directly north of the Bog Brook and Whitten Hill Preserves, the two other lands in the network. All three of these properties are owned by the Midcoast Conservancy; the Land for Maine’s Future program supported the conservancy’s acquisition of the 410-acre Northern Headwaters Preserve in 2010.
The property houses the southern portion of Goose Ridge Trail. This trail offers moderately difficult hiking and crosses two dams that date back to the early 1800s. It extends north for more than 5 miles before eventually intersecting with the 47-mile Hills to Sea Trail. The western portion of Hidden Knoll Trail is also found within Northern Headwaters Preserve. This trail crosses over the upper part of Sheepscot River, which is a brook trout and Atlantic salmon habitat.
Northern Headwaters Preserve has populations of moose, deer, bobcats, bears, owls, and martens all living within its borders. Excellent views of the preserve are available from the tops of Frye Mountain, Hogback Mountain, and Goose Ridge. In addition to hiking, the preserve also offers hunting, fishing, and snowshoeing opportunities.
Closest Town: Montville
Activities: Hiking, Wildlife Watching, Nature Study, Snowshoeing, Fishing, Hunting, Birdwatching, Picnicking
Region: Midcoast Maine – Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox, Waldo
Acreage: 410
Directions: From Montville, turn left onto ME-220 S. Continue straight onto Burnham Hill Road before fading right onto Halldale Road. The trailhead will be on your left in two miles.
