5.0
(2)
4
hikers
00:57
3.47km
60m
Hiking
The Butler Head Preserve Trails offer a delightful, easy escape into nature, winding through old forests, marshland, and fields before reaching the tranquil shores of Butler Cove and Merrymeeting Bay. You'll enjoy diverse scenery, from the rich woodlands to the broad expanse of Merrymeeting Bay visible from the Harlequin Path,…
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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279 m
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
3.47 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.41 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.41 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Sunday 12 July
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Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Parking is available at the trailhead for the Butler Head Preserve. The preserve is located on Butler Head Road in Bath, Maine. Look for designated parking areas at the entrance.
Generally, dogs are welcome on the trails at Butler Head Preserve. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Please remember to clean up after your pet.
No, there are no permits required, and there is no entrance fee to access the Butler Head Preserve Trails. It is a conservation easement held by the Kennebec Estuary Land Trust, open for low-impact recreation.
The preserve offers diverse scenery throughout the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is great for enjoying the waterfront views, while winter can offer a quiet, snowy hiking experience. Always check local conditions before heading out.
The trails are generally considered easy, offering a quiet walking experience. The surfaces vary, including gravel, crushed stone, dirt, forest floor, and grass. While most paths are level, some sections do feature
The main network of trails is approximately 0.90 miles, and a typical hike around the full loop, which is about 3.5 km (2.2 miles), can take around 55-60 minutes at a moderate pace, depending on how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
You'll find a rich variety of scenery, including scenic waterfront views of Merrymeeting Bay and Butler Cove, passages through old forests, and open fields. The preserve's diverse habitats support various wildlife, and you might spot local birds or other animals. Notable plant life includes white pine, red maple, beech, and wild rice growing in Butler Cove.
Yes, the trails at Butler Head Preserve are well-marked. They are uniquely named after ducks, which adds a charming and distinctive element to the hiking experience and helps with navigation.
Yes, the trails are generally easy and suitable for beginners and families. The varied terrain and scenic views make it an enjoyable outing for all ages, though some paths have
The preserve offers beautiful waterfront views of Merrymeeting Bay and Butler Cove. The diverse forest and field habitats are notable, and the preserve itself is a significant conservation easement. The trails are also uniquely named after ducks, which is a charming feature.
As a natural preserve focused on conservation, there are typically no dedicated restrooms or water facilities directly on the trails. It's advisable to come prepared with your own water and use facilities before or after your visit in nearby towns.
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