Discover Powell Point Preserve: Freeport, Maine’s Best Kept Secret for Coastal Hiking and Scenic Views
Name: Powell Point Preserve
Location: Freeport, Maine
Distance: 0.8 miles
Terrain: soft dirt paths, roots, rocks, boardwalks.
Elevation gain: 50-75 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Pets: Allowed, on-leash
Powell Point Preserve in Freeport, Maine, is a serene coastal trail network featuring forested trails, salt marshes, and sweeping views of Casco Bay. The preserve offers a peaceful escape where visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and connecting with nature along the shoreline. Its well-maintained paths and tranquil scenery make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
In this blog post, I will share everything you need to know before exploring Powell Point Preserve in Freeport, Maine—including how to access the trailhead, parking information, trail descriptions, the best time to visit, as well as several insider tips and the best nearby eats.
Preparing for Powell Point 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
Click here to learn more about what to pack for a Maine hike
Directions and Parking for Powell Point Preserve
Directions from I-295
Take Exit 20 towards U.S Route 1, then turn right onto Route 1 North. Drive for 1.2 miles, then turn right onto South Freeport Road. In 0.4 miles, turn right onto Lambert Road. Drive down Lambert Road for 0.9 miles, and you’ll see a small paved parking lot on your left before Rising Tide Lane. This is where you park to access the preserve—just be sure to leave enough space for a school bus to turn around.
Accessing the trailhead
After parking, you’re going to walk South on Lambert Road, past Rising Tide Lane and the big sign that says “Whistler Cove, Private Way” and look for the trailhead on your right. It’s very small and could easily be missed.
Powell Point Preserve Trail Descriptions
Click here to view the trail map.
Powell Point Trail (0.8 miles, easy)
The main trail of the preserve that brings hikers from Lambert Road to a scenic point that overlooks Cousins River and Casco Bay. This trail is mostly flat, with a few short, steep hills and boardwalks.
Short Side Trail (0.1 miles, easy)
A short trail marked with blue blazes that provides hikers with views of the wetlands.
Marsh View Trail (0.1 miles, easy)
A short trail marked with blue blazes that starts with a steep incline and then winds through forest with a view of the wetlands and Casco Bay.
Sarah’s Loop Trail (0.1 miles, easy)
A short, mostly flat trail marked by blue blazes that provides forested views of the wetlands and Casco Bay.
The Viewpoint at Powell Point Preserve
The Powell Point Trail ends at a scenic viewpoint of where Cousins River meets Casco Bay. There is a small bench for resting and enjoying the view. If you visit the preserve mid-day, this viewpoint will have full sun and be quite hot. There is another bench along the main trail that sits in the shade.
Insider Tips for Visiting Powell Point Preserve
There are some steep spots in the trail—so be sure to wear proper footwear with good traction!
Bring a pair of binoculars to help spot wildlife and birds.
The best time to visit is from June-October when the temperatures are warm.
Best nearby eats:
Isabella’s Cafe & Bakery: a local spot that offers sit-down breakfast or pastries and coffee to-go
Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster Company: a waterfront restaurant that serves fresh lobster, fried seafood, and yummy desserts
Nighthawk’s Kitchen: this low-key kitchen serves up delicious sandwiches and burgers
Things to do near Powell Point Preserve
Shopping
Downtown Freeport is known for its beautiful brick-lined sidewalks and retailers that offer a mix of outlet stores, home goods, locally-made goods, jewelry stores, food stores, etc. The most popular shopping destination in downtown Freeport is the L.L Bean flagship store—home to iconic products such as the boat and tote and the L.L Bean Boot.
Hikes + Trails
This Maine State Park offers pet-friendly hiking trails that wind through beautiful forest and rocky coastline. The park is also home to a day use area complete with picnic tables, brand new bathrooms, a grassy field, and a covered picnic shelter.
This Maine State Park offers camping, multi-use trails for hiking and mountain biking, a playground, and a picnic area.
This quiet preserve offers hikers a peaceful walk through wooded forest with views of Casco Bay.
Mast Landing Audubon Sanctuary
Mast Landing Audubon Sanctuary is home to 145 acres of protected habitat for birds and animals and three miles of walking trails that guide visitors through orchards, fields, tidal marsh, and forests.
Unique Experiences
L.L Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs
Local retailer L.L Bean offers a wide variety of outdoor-based trips, workshops, and classes located all around the state of Maine.
A unique, family-friendly destination home to sand dunes, a snack bar, a mini golf course, a gemstone village, and a family-friendly campground.
Small batch chocolate and confections made in Maine. Shop their large selection of gifts, candy, fudge, and apparel or take a tour to learn about how some of their most well-known chocolate products are made.
A 600-acre coastal, family-friendly farm that prides itself on sustainability, research, and providing education to the public. Visitors can enjoy the multi-use trails, meet the farm animals, shop at the farm store, and enjoy a meal at the farm cafe.
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
