Exploring Peabody-Fitch Woods: Walking Trails, Granite Quarries, and a Historic Farmhouse

Located in Bridgton Maine, Peabody-Fitch Woods is a 252-acre forest with 2.5 miles of scenic walking trails that wind through the beautiful fields of Narramissic Farm. The flat, wide trails are perfect for year-round recreation for all ages and abilities.

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

History

Peabody-Fitch Woods has a rich history. The land once belonged to the Abenaki, a member tribe of the Wabanaki Confederacy. The Peabody-Fitch Farm was established in 1797 by one of Bridgton’s first settlers, William Peabody. Peabody established a granite quarry for the home and farm buildings. The quarry remains intact on the southwestern corner of the parcel. Stone walls indicate both animal pastures and cultivated lands. At least one road crossed the property, coming from the John Peabody farm to today’s Narramissic farm and on to points west in Denmark and Bridgton.

At it’s peak, Narramissic Farm was busy— they grew crops like Indian corn, raised livestock, made their own butter, maple syrup, cheese—and even constructed tools in their very own blacksmith shop (which meant less trips into town when something broke).

In 1938, Margaret Monroe purchased the property to use as a summer home. After her death in 1986, the home, barn, and fields were donated to the Bridgton Historical Society while the forestland was left to her daughter, Peg Normann.

Preparation

• 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

• Click here to learn more about what to pack for a Maine hike

Directions/Parking

The trailhead for Peabody-Fitch Woods is located in a large dirt parking lot off Narramissic Road in South Bridgton. To get to Narramissic Road, from Route 302, turn onto Route 117 S (Sandy Creek Road), drive for 0.2 miles, then turn left onto Route 107 (South Bridgton Road). Follow that road for 2.4 miles, then take a right onto Ingalls Road. Follow Ingalls Road for 1 mile, and then take a left onto Narramissic Road. Follow that road until you see signs on your right for Peabody-Fitch Woods. Turn into the parking lot and you’ll see the trailhead in the NorthEast corner.

The parking lot is huge, so I wouldn’t worry about finding parking. Occasionally, there are events at Peabody-Fitch Woods that could make parking more of a hassle, so be sure to check the Bridgton Historical Society’s website to be in-the-know about upcoming events.

Preserve Rules

• Carry in, carry out

• No fires or camping

• Event and commercial use by permission only

• Dogs are allowed but must be on-leash for Peggy’s Pasture Loop

• Do not disturb any wildlife or plant life

Trails

There are two beautiful loop trails at Peabody-Fitch Woods. Click here to view the trail map.

Peggy's Pasture Loop (0.5 miles, easy, handicap accessible)
Wide, flat gravel trails with a gentle slope—perfect for walking, biking, running, or skiing. There are three benches located along the trail for pausing to take in the scenic views.

Quarry Trail Loop (2.0 miles, moderate)
A wooded, winding trail that can be steep in sections. The trail is a bit rocky and uneven near the quarries.

The Quarry

There are five historic quarries located on the Quarry Trail Loop. Make sure you complete the loop and visit all of them, as they are all unique in their own way. The quarries were established by William Peabody in the late 1700s. During the colder months, he would hand cut large pieces and stack them onto sledges to be brought down to the farm.

Insider Tips

• Best nearby eats: Standard Gastropub, Elevation Sushi and Tacos, Ancora Italian Kitchen.

• Other nearby activities: visit the Bridgton Twin Drive In, Reny’s (a Maine adventure), or play a round of golf at the Bridgton Highlands Country Club.

• The best time to visit: June-September when the trail has dried out and you can see all the beautiful flowers and the quarries aren’t covered in snow.

• Don’t miss Quarry #2. It is by far the largest and most impressive quarry—it will take your breath away.

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.

Interested in more Maine hiking information and tips? You can find them all here.

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With love,

My Maine