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Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 310 Google reviews · Running trail in Wells, Maine · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- 1 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve'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.
Nature preserve with coastal walking paths, boardwalks, and benches, plus a visitor center.
What runners say about Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve
“The beach was small and rocky but it was also interesting and beautiful.”
“The nature trails that take you into the woods are well marked and easy to follow but BEWARE OF TICKS.”
Beautiful and pristine nature reserve. Easy to walk around. Grab a map at the front entrance to help determine the best trails to walk. Trails are all marked.
This place was everything we were hoping it would be. Simply amazing. Entry was less than $20 for a family of four- a modest fee that keeps the crowds at bay. We were one of just a handful of couples and families that were there, and we were the only people swimming in the brisk Atlantic waters.
We had a wonderful visit here despite severe thunderstorms and rain. Hiking to the beach and walking the beach in the rain meant we had the trails and beach to ourselves. We didn't see another soul. The trails here are lovely and the beach is so pretty. The visitors center is really nice too. We loved our visit!
Great spot to check out some local history, both man made and natural. Admission by donation helps promote the facility and their mission. Nice hikes, great history and good facilities made it a memorable stop. Follow the sighs, not your GPS/map app. Easy drive, plenty of parking, cool place.
Trail conditions & character
“Great to view a range of marsh-dwelling birds such as Heron, Snowy and Great Egret, Plovers, and also see Harriers, Kingfishers and if very lucky a local Eagle.”
“This tour is located off site at Mayor's Park area(free parking) down the street from the Wells Fire Department.”
“The beach was small and rocky but it was also interesting and beautiful.”
“It was good for a stroller except for the end at the beach, where we carried the stroller down and back up a small set of stairs.”
Plan your run at Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Distance1 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitemarineprotectedareas.noaa.gov
- Social Facebook
Running trails near Wells
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Wells Harbor Community Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 296 reviews
Park with a beach and a playground, plus a gazebo for concerts.
Wells Reserve at Laudholm
4.8 ★★★★★ 362 reviews
Conservation center featuring trails through woodlands & wetlands, plus historic farm buildings.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,034 reviews
This large salt marsh & estuary features hiking trails, trees & many bird-watching opportunities.
Ghost Meadow Wildlife Commons
3.9 ★★★★☆ 7 reviews