*Name: Horton Woods Wildlife Preserve*
*Location: Saco, Maine*
*Distance:* Varies (trail network)
*Terrain: Dirt paths, mostly flat, uneven ground, forest, open fields.*
*Elevation gain: Varies*
*Difficulty: Easy*
*Pets:* Allowed, on leash

Horton Woods Wildlife Preserve in Saco Maine is one of my favorite trail networks in Southern Maine—and for good reason! This 100-acre preserve is home to dense forest, marshes, streams, wetlands, fields, and so much more! It’s the perfect spot to bring the kids and dog to unwind and connect with nature.

In this blog post, I share everything you need to know before visiting Horton Woods Wildlife Preserve—including how to access the trailhead, parking information, preserve rules, trail descriptions, the best time to visit, as well as several insider tips.

Preparing to Explore Horton Woods Wildlife Preserve

Check the weather forecast to ensure safe conditions

Research trail information and conditions
Pack all the hiking essentials, such as water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit
Wear season-appropriate footwear and clothing
There are no public restrooms—to be sure to “go” before you arrive
If you’re bringing a pup, pack poop bags and their leash

Directions and Parking Information for Horton Woods Wildlife Preserve

Driving Directions from Route 202

From Route 202, turn onto either Route 112 South (Beech Plains Road) or Route 117 South (Joy Valley Road) towards Saco. Eventually, these two roads will intersect and you will continue south on Route 112 (Buxton Road) for about half a mile. You will see a sign for the preserve on the right side of the road.

Driving Directions from Route 1

Drive on Route 1 until you reach the intersection of Route 1/Route 112 in Saco. Turn onto Route 112 North (North Street) and drive for about 6 miles, until you see the sign for Horton Woods Preserve on your left.

Parking

The large dirt parking lot has plenty of spaces for those using the trails. It can be messy during mud season or after heavy rain—so keep that in mind. As far as I know, there are no restrooms located in the parking lot.

Horton Woods Wildlife Preserve Rules

Trails are open from dawn until dusk

Stay on marked trails
Keep your dog leashed and clean up all pet waste
No alcohol or tobacco
No camping or campfires
No motorized vehicles

Horton Woods Wildlife Preserve Trail Descriptions

Click here to view a map of the full trail network. I’ll share a few of my favorite trails below.

Blue Heron Trail (1.3 miles, easy)

The Blue Heron Trail (marked by blue blazes) is an out-and-back trail that starts at the parking lot and follows a creek for just over a mile. It’s mostly flat and features several overlooks and benches for explorers to stop and rest.

Big Pine Trail (0.5 miles, easy)

The Big Pine Trail (marked by green blazes) is a c-shaped trail that begins at the intersection of the Blue Heron Trail and Ends towards the end of the Beaver Path Trail. It moves away from the creek, providing a nice walk through dense forest and hills.

Red Maple Trail (0.5 miles, easy)

The Red Maple Trail (marked by red blazes) is a loop trail that begins at the end of the Beaver Path Trail. It crosses Stackpole Creek and moves through the woods, an open field, and then back into the woods to finish.

Insider Tips for Exploring Horton Woods Wildlife Preserve

If visiting during mud season (March-May) or if you plan on exploring the creek, I would recommend wearing water-resistant boots or shoes
The best time to visit: June-September
Located right down the road is the infamous Saco Heath Preserve—a beautiful boardwalk trail that opens up into a stunning heath filled with unique flowers and other flora
Best nearby eats: Run of the Mill (elevated pub food), Catface Cafe (casual breakfast/lunch spot), Rapid Ray’s (an iconic fast food restaurant serving burgers and fries and other fried food to-go).

Leave no Trace

When it comes to enjoying time outdoors, remember the golden rule: Leave No Trace. It’s as simple as picking up after yourself, staying on the trails, and leaving nature just as beautiful as you found it. By practicing Leave No Trace, you help preserve the magic of Maine for future adventurers to enjoy, so everyone can keep enjoying the same beautiful, wild world we love.

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With love,

My Maine

Horton Woods Wildlife Preserve in Saco Maine