Why is a trail network important?
Trails are an important resource in Greater Portland. They connect individuals with nature, but also to businesses, neighborhoods, schools, and destinations. In conjunction with streets, sidewalks, and public spaces, trails are part of a healthy, walkable community. A trail network supports active lifestyles, enhances the livability of the community, and strengthens the regional economy by serving as an amenity for residents and property owners.
Trail networks offer many environmental benefits too. They connect ecosystems and fragmented habitats, and can be useful tools for protecting land and wildlife. Trails also offer a low-impact opportunity for humans to connect with the natural world.
Want to learn more about why trails are a great environmental and community asset? Check out Rails-to-Trails’ Benefits of Trails infosheet.
Portland Trails serves the 230,000 residents of Greater Portland and many of the area’s 4 million annual visitors. Our trail network reaches within a half mile of every resident, and within a quarter mile of 95% of all Portland residents. The network includes over 70-miles of trails in Portland, Westbrook, South Portland and Falmouth, and the trails we maintain and build provide free recreation and active transportation for all ages.
The Portland Trails network includes a diversity of trails: from woodland escapes like Fore River Sanctuary or the Presumpscot River Preserve, to multi-purpose trails visited by hundreds of thousands of users yearly like the Eastern Promenade or Back Cove.
Check out our trail map and find a trail near you!