If I see an issue or problem on the trail, who do I report to?
A maintenance problem should be reported to the Board of Supervisors. Currently, Andy Hendrickson is the Acting Chairman. For suggestions or general comments about the trail, please email the Friends of the Kennebec River Rail Trail at railtrailnews@krrt.org.
Who are the Friends of the Kennebec River Rail Trail?
The Friends of the Kennebec River Rail Trail is a non-profit organization that helps raise funds for trail improvements and maintenance. The board of directors is elected from the general membership and serves from 1 to 3 year terms. Everyone who becomes a member of the Friends of the Kennebec River Rail Trail is a “Friend”. The Friends were instrumental in providing the cash local match for the completion of the trail. Click here for more information.
How long is the trail?
The trail is 6.5 miles from end to end. It starts in Augusta at the Maine State Housing Authority parking lot on Water Street and follows the river down to the Hannaford Parking Lot in Gardiner. About a half mile of the trail goes through downtown Hallowell on Water Street or Route 201.
How do I find out more about the trail?
Become a Friend! Sign up for your e-newsletter and updates over e-mail.
Sign up over on the right hand sidebar. →
Is the Kennebec River Rail Trail designed to accommodate wheelchairs?
Yes, the Trail is designed to meet the requirements of ADA. Presently, the two best access points for wheelchairs are the Maine State Housing Authority parking lot off of Water Street in Augusta – beneath Memorial Bridge and the Hannaford parking lot in Gardiner. Other access points at Capital Park in Augusta and in Hallowell have grades ranging between 5 – 12%. Access points along Route 201 are not paved and parking is very limited.
How will the trail be impacted if the railroad becomes active again?
The trail has been designed to be next to an active railroad. It meets all State and Federal guidelines for “Trails with Rails”. Safety has been a top priority since the beginning of the project.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Yes. Dogs must be on leashes. The Friends of the Kennebec River Rail Trail provide “Dog-i-pot” stations at various points along the trail. These “poop” bags are provided for dog walkers to use when picking up after their dogs. When walking dogs, the municipality ordinance is in effect. Please be a responsible dog owner and pick up after your dog.
Is the trail open in the winter?
Yes. The Board of Supervisors has a contract with a private contractor to plow the trail within 36 hours of the completion of a storm. The trail is not sanded.
Where do I go to walk the trail?
Access points are as follows: – Maine State Housing Authority parking lot off Water Street in Augusta – beneath Memorial Bridge -The Capital Connector located at Capital Park in Augusta (near the YMCA) – The Hallowell Municipal Parking Lot in Hallowell at the north end of town – At the south end of Hallowell at the “Great Wall” near the scenic outlook for the Benedict Arnold Trail. – At the Hannaford grocery store parking lot in Gardiner. – There are various access points along Route 201 that are not paved and parking is very limited.
Who is responsible for maintenance and oversight of the trail?
The maintenance of the trail is the responsibility of Augusta, Farmingdale, Gardiner and Hallowell; the four communities that the Trail goes through. The Board of Supervisors acts as the regional government entity that oversees the maintenance and use of the trail. The members of the Board of Supervisors are appointed by these four communities. The Friends of the Kennebec River Rail Trail supports the trail through fund raising and promoting the Trail and outdoor recreational oppurtunities in the region.
Can I hold an event on the Trail?
Yes, we welcome community events on the Trail. Organizations need to fill out a Trail Use Form HERE and submit it to the Board of Supervisors. The event will be reviewed at a monthly meeting and once approved will be posted on the calendar. A certificate of insurance will be required.