The best family-friendly hikes and walks in University Forest
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Family friendly hiking trails in University Forest traverse a landscape characterized by mixed forests, bogs, and marshland. The terrain is generally flat, featuring woodland paths and boardwalks over wetlands. Rivers and streams are common, offering scenic views along the routes. This region provides a diverse array of outdoor activities, serving as both a recreational hub and a living laboratory for research and education.
Best family friendly hiking trails in University Forest
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Roland F. Perry City Forest – Tripp Road loop from Rolland F. Perry City Forest, an easy 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 19 minutes to complete. This route offers gentle paths through mixed woodlands.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tripp Road loop from North Penjajawoc Forest, an easy 1.9 miles (3.0 km) path. This trail provides a short, accessible walk through forest scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Orono Bog Boardwalk loop from Rolland F. Perry City Forest, a 4.1 miles (6.7 km) trail leading through a unique bog ecosystem, often completed in about 1 hour 41 minutes.
- Hiking in University Forest is defined by mixed forests, bogs, and marshland, with trails often featuring boardwalks over wetlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
- The routes in University Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 1 review. More than 70 hikers have used komoot to explore University Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
18.4km
04:44
80m
80m
Hike the moderate 11.5-mile Marsh Island trail, gaining 268 feet, through wetlands with wildlife and urban views in 4h 44m.
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hikers
12.7km
03:13
40m
40m
The Bangor City Forest and Walden Parke Preserve Loop offers a wonderfully varied hiking experience, transitioning from wide, easy gravel roads to narrower dirt paths that wind through diverse forests and wetlands. You'll encounter sections of the old Veazie Railroad bed and can look forward to spotting abundant wildlife, especially around the large beaver wetlands in Walden Parke Preserve. It's a moderate 7.9-mile (12.7 km) route with a gentle 124 feet (38 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 13 minutes to complete.
This trail system is highly accessible and open year-round, accommodating various non-motorized activities like hiking, biking, and snowshoeing. Dogs are generally welcome on the trails, usually requiring a leash. With its extensive interconnectedness to other preserves, you have the flexibility to extend your hike if you're looking for a longer day out.
What makes this loop particularly special is its blend of working forest and preserved natural habitats, showcasing reforestation and tree regeneration alongside pristine wetlands. The area's history is subtly woven into the landscape through features like the old railroad bed, providing a unique backdrop for your outdoor adventure near Bangor, Maine.
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7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
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The Tripp Road – Roland F. Perry City Forest loop offers a serene and accessible journey through Bangor's Rolland F. Perry City Forest, a haven of towering spruce and pine trees. You'll follow wide, gentle gravel and dirt paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll, with opportunities to observe local wildlife and diverse natural flora. While the main route is smooth, the broader forest also features narrower, more rugged trails, but this particular loop keeps things easy and enjoyable, making it a great option for a relaxing outing.
Planning your visit to this easy 1.9-mile (3.0 km) hike, which takes about 46 minutes with only 29 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, is straightforward. The forest is easily accessible from the Tripp Drive entrance, where parking is generally available. It's a popular spot for year-round activities, so you can enjoy this gentle route in any season without needing permits or paying fees. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.
What makes this loop particularly appealing is its connection to the unique Orono Bog Boardwalk, which you can easily access from the East Trail within the forest. This accessible boardwalk provides a fascinating glimpse into a peat bog ecosystem, complete with educational displays. The Rolland F. Perry City Forest itself is a testament to the vision of its namesake, offering a vital urban green space that balances wildlife habitat with recreational opportunities for the community.
5
hikers
6.68km
01:41
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Tripp Road is a gravel trail with a wide, gently graded path that loops southeast from the Main Road. It forms part of a 4-mile network of gravel access roads that are popular for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The trail surface is a mix of dirt and gravel, with some larger stones. It is 8 feet wide and open year-round from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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The East/West Loop is one of the most popular trails in the Rolland F. Perry City Forest. The trail is pretty wide, fairly flat, and mostly consists of crushed gravel and cinders. There are a lot of connecting trails, but most of the paths are marked pretty well and are easy to follow.
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Roland F. Perry City Forest is a popular spot for hikers and cyclists. There are several miles of dirt and hiking trails and also several paved roads that run through the dense forest.
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The East/West Loop is one of the most popular trails in the Rolland F. Perry City Forest. The trail is pretty wide, fairly flat, and mostly consists of crushed gravel and cinders. There are a lot of connecting trail, but most of the paths are marked pretty well and are easy to follow.
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This bridge crosses Pushaw Stream and offers magnificent views of the sky reflected in the water.
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The Orono Bog Boardwalk is the perfect stroll for those who want to enjoy the wide range of changing vegetation and environment of a Maine bog.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in University Forest?
University Forest offers a selection of 12 family-friendly hiking trails. These routes are specifically chosen for their manageable distances and gentle paths, making them suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Are there easy trails suitable for young children or strollers?
Yes, there are 9 easy-rated trails perfect for families with young children or those using strollers. These paths typically feature minimal elevation gain and well-maintained surfaces. A great option is the Tripp Road loop from North Penjajawoc Forest, which is just over 3 km long and very gentle.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on these family hikes?
University Forest boasts diverse natural features. Depending on the specific trail, you might encounter mixed forests, unique bog ecosystems with boardwalks, or riverside paths. For example, the Orono Bog Boardwalk loop offers a unique experience traversing wetlands.
Are there any circular routes that are good for families?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails are circular, allowing for a complete loop back to your starting point without retracing steps. The Roland F. Perry City Forest – Tripp Road loop is an excellent easy circular option for families.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family trails in University Forest?
The family-friendly trails in University Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful woodland settings, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to enjoy nature with their loved ones.
Can we spot any wildlife while hiking with our family?
University Forests are often rich in biodiversity, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching. Keep an eye out for local fauna such as deer and various bird species, especially in quieter sections of the trails. The diverse ecosystems support a variety of animal life.
Are there longer, more moderate options for families with older children?
Yes, for families looking for a bit more of a challenge, there are 3 moderate trails available. These routes offer longer distances and slightly more varied terrain while still being suitable for active families. Consider the Marsh Island route for a longer adventure.
What is the best season to visit University Forest for family hiking?
University Forest offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is great for longer days, and in colder climates, some trails may be suitable for winter activities like snowshoeing, though always check local conditions.
Are there any trails that offer views or unique landscapes?
Many trails offer scenic views of the surrounding natural environment. For instance, the Bangor City Forest and Walden Parke Preserve Loop can provide views of mixed forests and potentially urban vistas depending on the section, while bog boardwalks offer a unique perspective on wetland ecosystems.
Is there information available about parking or trailheads?
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, University Forests generally provide designated parking facilities at trail access points. It's always a good idea to check the individual route descriptions on komoot for the most up-to-date information on trailhead locations and parking availability.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Many University Forests are dog-friendly, often allowing leashed dogs on trails. However, regulations can vary by specific forest or trail section. We recommend checking local signage or the specific route details on komoot to confirm dog policies before your visit.
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