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Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary
4.7 ★★★★★ 570 Google reviews · Running trail in Lewiston, Maine · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Hiking trails, various bird species & a stone fire pit in a nature preserve with woods & meadows.
What runners say about Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary
“A truly beautiful area, this centennial being the highest point in Lewiston makes it a good hiking playground of easy to moderate difficulty depending on your pace.”
“It's a fairly easy hike, the trails are well marked and tidy, and it contains a diverse ecosystem that was so much fun to explore.”
“It's a fairly easy hike, the trails are well marked and tidy, and it contains a diverse ecosystem that was so much fun to explore.”
A good place for a nature walk, no fee to enter. I took pictures of the front and back entrances. I would definitely recommend the use of bug spray if you are bothered by mosquitoes.
Tons of walking trails and bird watching opportunities here!! The trails all connect in one big loop with plenty to see. Red trail and Orange trails pass by old foundations and streams. Green trail ends at Whale Rock, a giant boulder looking out over a clearing by the power lines.
Nice little walking trail with hills. Seen 4 deer and 4 turkey's on my quick visit here. There are benches at different intervals throughout. This trail is also the highest point in Lewiston.
Excellent spot. Easy but varied and well marked and maintained trails. There is variation in the length of the trails so you can do an easy, short walk if preferred. There are also enough trails to support a second visit, which I plan on doing. From one spot you can see the eastern edge of the white mountains.
Trail conditions & character
“A truly beautiful area, this centennial being the highest point in Lewiston makes it a good hiking playground of easy to moderate difficulty depending on your pace.”
“It's a fairly easy hike, the trails are well marked and tidy, and it contains a diverse ecosystem that was so much fun to explore.”
“Love this place for a nice peaceful walk, even when there is many cars in the parking lot I find I come across maybe one or two other sets of people while walking.”
“I also appreciate that dogs aren't allowed into the sanctuary as oftentimes it makes it harder to pass other people and can make it less tranquil.”
“The trails all connect in one big loop with plenty to see.”
“Overall, it's a great place to hike that's a step up from easy, flat trails and offers plenty for sightseeing and exploring.”
Plan your run at Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitestantonbirdclub.org
- Phone+1 888-363-0007
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–8 pm |
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