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Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop

Routes

Running trails & routes

Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop

Moderate

3.1

(21)

runners

Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop

Q: Where is the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop located?

This specific Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop is located in Saco, Maine, within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge . It's important to note this to distinguish it from other trails with similar names.

Q: What is the typical jogging duration for this loop?

The route is approximately 6.9 kilometers long and typically takes around 48 minutes to jog, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop?

The trail offers a varied surface, including sections of dirt/forest floor, gravel/crushed stone, boardwalks/bog bridging, and sand. This diversity makes for an engaging jogging experience.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge , but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the trail?

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access the trails within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Saco, Maine.

Q: What can I see along the route?

As you jog, you'll experience over 300 acres of saltmarsh habitat, a forest of white pines, birch, and maples, and spectacular views of the Goosefare Brook Marsh. The Branch Brook Loop specifically passes through old-growth pine forest.

Q: What is the best time of year to jog this trail?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also great, though you might encounter more insects. Winter jogging is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet or icy conditions.

Q: Does the trail intersect other paths?

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other paths, including the Atlantic Way Trail, Plymouth Trail, and Vines Trail, offering a diverse experience within the refuge.

Q: Is this trail suitable for beginner joggers?

Given its shorter length and diverse but manageable terrain, the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop is generally considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginner joggers looking for a pleasant and scenic run.

Q: Where can I park to access the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop?

Specific parking information for the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop in Saco, Maine, would typically be found on the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge website or local signage. It's advisable to check their official resources for the most up-to-date parking locations.

00:48

6.89km

10m

Running

The Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop offers a delightful journey through varied forest and marshland within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. You'll jog on a mix of dirt, gravel, and boardwalks, passing through groves of white pines, birch, and hemlocks. Keep an eye out for the picturesque views…

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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395 m

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Highlight • Natural

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1966 to protect migratory birds. The area includes ten estuaries which are vital to the survival of these animals. There are a few astonishing trails to enjoy.

Tip by

400 m

Atlantic Way Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Atlantic Way Trail is a popular path within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. The main running loop uses some neighborhoods to connect some broken sections of trail to each other, making for a pretty flat and pretty quick loop.

Tip by

6.89 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.42 km

1.47 km

Surfaces

3.01 km

2.42 km

1.41 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Sunday 12 July

26°C

15°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop located?

This specific Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop is located in Saco, Maine, within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. It's important to note this to distinguish it from other trails with similar names.

What is the typical jogging duration for this loop?

The route is approximately 6.9 kilometers long and typically takes around 48 minutes to jog, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

What is the terrain like on the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop?

The trail offers a varied surface, including sections of dirt/forest floor, gravel/crushed stone, boardwalks/bog bridging, and sand. This diversity makes for an engaging jogging experience.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the trail?

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access the trails within the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Saco, Maine.

What can I see along the route?

As you jog, you'll experience over 300 acres of saltmarsh habitat, a forest of white pines, birch, and maples, and spectacular views of the Goosefare Brook Marsh. The Branch Brook Loop specifically passes through old-growth pine forest.

What is the best time of year to jog this trail?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also great, though you might encounter more insects. Winter jogging is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet or icy conditions.

Does the trail intersect other paths?

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other paths, including the Atlantic Way Trail, Plymouth Trail, and Vines Trail, offering a diverse experience within the refuge.

Is this trail suitable for beginner joggers?

Given its shorter length and diverse but manageable terrain, the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop is generally considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginner joggers looking for a pleasant and scenic run.

Where can I park to access the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop?

Specific parking information for the Wildwood Trail and Branch Brook Loop in Saco, Maine, would typically be found on the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge website or local signage. It's advisable to check their official resources for the most up-to-date parking locations.

Are there any amenities or facilities near the trailhead?

As the trail is located within a National Wildlife Refuge, amenities directly at the trailhead might be limited to basic facilities. For cafes, pubs, or accommodations, you would need to venture into nearby Saco or other surrounding towns.