Frequently Asked Questions
Planning Your Visit
The Eastern Trail is open year-round and typically in-use from sunrise to sunset. Overnight camping is strictly prohibited. Portions of the trail may close temporarily for maintenance, please respect all posted closures on the Trail Conditions page.
All access points to the Eastern Trail have bollards installed to prevent cars, trucks, and ATVs from driving onto the trail. These bollards have been installed with ADA spacing of 36″ between at least two of the bollards at every location. Many of our access points have even wider openings to accommodate wider mobility devices. If you have a device that is unable to fit and gain access to the trail please reach out to our office with information regarding this issue so that we can try to assist you. The trail is for everyone!
Yes, there is parking along various sections of the Eastern Trail. Our parking page lists further details and locations. Please do not park on private property!
No. The Eastern Trail is generally not plowed in the winter. Limited sections may be cleared by co-located partners like utility companies for access to adjacent infrastructure, but this is not guaranteed or maintained for public use.
There is no water access available from the Eastern Trail. To access the Scarborough Marsh, you may utilize the boat ramp to put in canoes and kayaks at your own risk.
There is limited water fountain access along the trail. At the trailhead on Mill Brook Rd there is a water fountain that is operational from May through October. Be prepared with water!
On the Trail Maps page you will find Ride With GPS maps embedded and downloadable for the entire trail or in sections. We also sell printed trail guides that include detailed maps!
No. There are no restrooms along the trail or at any of the trailhead parking areas.
No. To our knowledge only the Pine Point Road Parking Lot in Scarborough has very limited space to rack two bikes and a bicycle repair station next to the kiosk.
Hunting is strictly prohibited on or from the Eastern Trail itself. However, some adjacent lands do allow hunting. During hunting season, please take proper precautions by wearing blaze orange – even just a hat – and putting blaze orange on your pet, if applicable.
Trail Use & Rules
Yes. Dogs are allowed, however, they must be leashed at all times, including in parking areas. Owners must bag and carry out all waste. Most trailheads do not have trash bins.
No, snowmobile / ATV / motorized scooter / dirt bikes and other motorized recreation vehicles are strictly prohibited. Exceptions are made for mobility devices for disabled individuals as well as class 1 and class 2 low speed e-bikes.
Equestrian use is limited and varies by municipality. Please contact the town where you plan to ride for current regulations. Where allowed, equestrian users must use a manure containment device, so it’s carried away for proper disposal. Do not leave horse manure on/near the Eastern Trail or its parking areas.
No. Posting signage, selling goods, or operating any kind of business or vendor activity is not permitted on the Eastern Trail. This includes advertisements, flyers, pop-up stands, and commercial services. The Eastern Trail is a public recreational space, and all commercial use or posted materials must be authorized in advance.
Yes. Organized events and group activities – such as races, fundraisers, or large group outings – require advance approval from the Eastern Trail Management District (ETMD). Please request a permit ahead of time to ensure safety, coordination, and minimal disruption to other trail users. Email info@easterntrail.org to learn more or to request a permit application.
Experience on the Trail
The Eastern Trail is primarily a 10-foot-wide path made of compacted stone dust and gravel. Some sections are paved with asphalt, so surface conditions vary by location. We recommend checking the Trail Maps page for details on specific segments before your visit.
The trail runs through diverse habitats and is home to a variety of wildlife! Birdwatching is a popular activity on the trail, especially in Scarborough Marsh. Mammals such as deer, coyotes, foxes and squirrels can be spotted too. A research project at the University of New England investigated this topic further using camera traps, read more here. Please do not approach or feed wildlife you may see on the trail.
No, the trail does not have lighting. Please have lights on your bicycle or on your person if you plan to ride, walk or run the trail after dark.
You can report a trail issue on our website and provide details and photos.