Messalonskee Stream Trail - Oakland, ME
Messalonskee Stream Trail: A Dog-Friendly Hiking Haven in Oakland, Maine
Messalonskee Stream Trail stands out as a scenic and pet-friendly outdoor getaway in Oakland, Maine. This dog-friendly trail follows along the Messalonskee stream, offering peaceful woods, scenic vistas, and access to the river further down the trail. The trail is well-marked, offers a dense tree canopy for plenty of shade, and includes picnic tables, making it a relaxing spot for dog owners and their companions.
Parking is available for about a dozen vehicles, and the trail is maintained and welcoming for hikers of varying fitness levels (though there may be some rotted wooden walkways and a bit of altitude gain). Dogs are welcome and often seen off-leash, especially in areas away from the main path, making this a great choice for those seeking an off-leash adventure and exploring beautiful Maine scenery with their pups. Families will enjoy the natural setting, kid-friendly paths, and the tranquility of this urban wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, many visitors note they walk their dogs off-leash along the trail.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs appear to be commonly walked off-leash, but visitors should remain mindful and maintain control of their pets.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the trail is mostly under a dense tree canopy providing ample shade.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are picnic tables along the trail where visitors can rest.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a dedicated parking area near the trailhead that holds about 10-12 vehicles.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, the trails are generally well maintained, though some wooden walks may need attention.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, this location is known for its scenic, well-marked hiking trails.
Reviews
Excellent my grandkids loved it and so did the adults very well maintained and very nice , the trails are exactly that trails … Perfect perfect
Doesn’t look like much from the parking area, but this trail is fantastic! Beautiful and interesting for kids.
Trailhead comes up quick on the right of rt 11 but is well marked. Just watch for the sign . There is parking for about a dozen cars. Trails are well marked and groomed but are a challenge for the less fit due to altitude gain and the nearby large stream. Tree canopy is dense but allows glimpses of the stream, a dam, and the wreck of a mill to the left of the trail. These fleeting glimpses leave one wanting to see more and keep this urban wilderness exciting and fresh. I have never been this close to water without actually seeing it and never so close to ruins i could not explore, even just visually. Trail ends in a power cut which feels very hot after the shade of the woods. This is a place to visit again and again. Kudos to oakland for making this great trail available to the public. Update. 7/2/22 walked the trail a second time. Second mile definitely a little harder than the first but the second visit was just as good as the first. Note that some wooden walks around 1.25 miles have rotted and may cause trips amd slips among the unwary. Trailhead sign still comes up fast on the right. If you cross the bridge you missed it. Plenty of parking though.
Not too hard to find a trip before the bridge look for the signs. Parking enough for 10 vehicles probably. There is a fence along the way so you can’t get down by the river. But father out you can get down to the river. The trails are well-kept. Nice and quiet throughout the trails. Dog friendly. Definitely will go back. Please follow me
Wonderful trail along the stream. Nice picnic tables along the way. Great for my dog without a leash. Very well marked and nice distance to dirt road. Very scenic and relaxing.