UnDerwood springs forest Preserve
trail Distance and Description
1.25 mile trail system; trails are often rooty and rocky and contain sections of narrow bridging over wet areas. There are also log steps to enter the preserve and in two other places along the trail.
Dogs
Allowed off leash under voice control. Must be on leash within 300 feet of the trailhead.
Bikes
Allowed
GPS Address
11 US-1, Cumberland Foreside
Parking
Paved parking in Friends School lot on right hand side. There are 2 spots close to the trailhead designated for trail use during school hours. The entire lot is available for use during non school hours.
Click on map to enlarge
Additional Information
Ownership
Falmouth Land Trust
Year Protected
2020
Acreage
~ 52
Property Use
Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and nature study are all allowed. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. Trails are not handicapped accessible.
Additional Directions
From I-95 take exit 52 and continue for approximately 4 miles. Exit left to merge onto US-1 north towards Yarmouth. Continue on US-1 for 1.5 miles to the Friends School of Portland entrance on the right. Trailhead parking is in the first Friends School parking lot on the right. When school is in session, parking is restricted to the two marked parking spots available at the far end of the parking lot, close to the trail head. At other times, you may park anywhere in the parking lot.
Property Description
Underwood Springs Forest contains approximately 2,000 feet of stream corridor on Norton Brook. Norton Brook, along with Cheney Creek and Mill Creek, are important waterways that contribute to the health of Casco Bay and the uniqueness of our community.
Habitat
This preserve contains mature stands of trees, a fern understory, wetlands, diverse habitats, and several underground springs that feed cold waters into Norton Brook. Underwood Springs Forest Preserve is ecologically rich with many types of wildlife and unique vegetation.
History
The Falmouth Land Trust purchased the Underwood Springs Forest Preserve in November of 2020 after completing its most ambitious fundraising effort to date. The project was supported by the Maine Natural Resource Conservation Program, The Davis Conservation Foundation, the Casco Bay Estuary Program, and over 300 private donors. Thanks to the efforts of so many community members, this 52-acre property is now protected in perpetuity.
Cautions
Deer ticks are common; care must be taken to avoid Lyme disease. Water should be treated before drinking.
