Looking to do some snowshoeing? Check out my list of the top 10 snowshoeing spots in the Greater Portland Area.

Key: Low Traffic (encounter 3 people or less) – LT

High Traffic (encounter 4+ people) – HT     Sun/shade

1. Gull Crest Trail is a 5.7 mile network in Cape Elizabeth. With many miles and few people, this is a lovely and serene walk through the woods.  This network connects to the Great Pond Trail which can take you all the way to Kettle Cove if you’re feeling ambitious.  This trail is mostly flat with few hills making it perfect for a novice snowshoer. (LT, Shade)
2. River Point Conservation Area is a 1.4 mile network in Falmouth. This trail is much shorter and is relatively flat but has many wonderful natural features. It runs along the Presumpscot River and is home to many birds and deer. (LT, Sun/shade)
3. Horton Woods is a 2.2 mile network in Saco. This wooded walk runs alongside a brook.  It does have significant elevation changes making it a little more challenging than the previous two listings.  (LT, Shade)
4. Saco Heath is a 2.1 mile out and back trail in Saco. This trail, combined with the Horton Woods trail, makes for a wonderful day of snowshoeing. The trail begins in the woods for about half a mile. It then continues onto a boardwalk across a heath bog to solid land on the other side that has a short, level loop.  Be careful not to step off the boardwalk as the heath is very deep and very wet; also, there is a lot of sensitive vegetation such as carnivorous plants, wild berries, and orchids.  (LT, Sun/shade)
5. Gilsland Farms is a 3.5 mile network in Falmouth. These trails are mostly in open meadows which can be nice on a sunny day. Beware the winds, as this preserve is nearly surrounded by an outlet to Casco Bay.  There are many opportunities for views and don’t be surprised if you see a turkey or other wild bird. If you go during business hours, warm-up in the Nature Store 10am-4pm Monday – Saturday and 12pm-4pm on Sunday.  (HT, Sun)
6. Fore River Sanctuary is a 2.2 mile network in Portland. Jewel Falls, hidden in the biggest city in Maine, is as beautiful in winter as it is in summer.  The frozen falls are very striking and trails in the surrounding area are of moderate difficulty with some slight elevation changes through forest and marsh areas.  This trail is very busy in all seasons. (HT, Shade)
7. Fuller Farm is a 2.6 mile network in Scarborough. This trail begins in a meadow and progresses to a wooded loop trail.  This trail is fairly busy, but quite pleasant.  If you go around the loop clockwise in the afternoon, you will have the chance to end with a beautiful sunset view. Continue down the road and across the street to Broadturn Farm for some additional miles.  (HT, Sun/shade)
8. Blackstrap Preserve is a 10.9 mile network in Falmouth. Snowmobiles are allowed in certain areas.  There are lots of elevation changes, but also many level options in this huge preserve.  This preserve is home to many deer and birds. (LT, Shade)
9. Lowell Preserve is an 8.0 mile network in Windham. Snowmobiles are allowed in certain areas.  This preserve is a good combination of hills and flats to get your heart pumping just enough before it nicely levels off so you can catch your breath.  With tons of loops available it is easy to find yourself in complete solitude and silence.  However, the trails cross often so pay careful attention to trail markers and keep an eye and ear out for snowmobiles. (LT, Shade)
10. Black Brook Preserve is a 2.4 mile network in Windham. Snowmobiles are allowed in certain areas. This is a nice small preserve with rolling hills, meadows, and evergreen forests.  (LT, Shade)

By Liz Adams

Back in Motion® Physical Therapy

Related: Free Pain Consultations

Primed to Shred

Top 5 Mountain Hikes