A Pond and Two Hills Close to Portland
Knight’s Pond Preserve protects 334 acres in Cumberland and North Yarmouth, with a 46-acre pond at its heart and most of the shoreline conserved. It is one of the better quick-escape hikes north of Portland, with 6.5 miles of trails that loop around the water and climb the two small summits that frame it: Bruce Hill at 447 feet and Blueberry Hill at 451 feet. Neither hill is tall, but both give views, with Casco Bay and Cousins Island in sight and, in winter, a glimpse of Mount Washington from Blueberry Hill.
The preserve is shared land, jointly held by the towns of Cumberland and North Yarmouth and managed in partnership with the Royal River Conservation Trust. It is close enough to Portland for an after-work walk, yet big enough that you can string together a real morning of hiking. The forest here includes one of the northernmost examples of an oak-shagbark hickory woodland, a habitat type that is rare in Maine, and the mix supports a lot of wildlife.
The Trail
The trail system is color-blazed in white, blue, red, yellow, and green, and you can build loops of different lengths from the central network. The wide gravel road to the pond is smooth and easy, suitable for a stroller or a relaxed walk to the water. Most of the other trails are more primitive, with rocks, roots, and long stretches of muddy rut, so wear real footwear once you leave the gravel.
From the pond you can branch up to Bruce Hill or Blueberry Hill for the views. The climbs are short and the grades modest, which makes the whole preserve approachable while still offering enough trail mileage to fill a half-day if you want it. The route around the pond is the scenic core, and the two hilltops are the payoff.
Skin-safe picaridin, no smell
Getting There
The main trailhead is at 477 Greely Road Extension in Cumberland Center, where there is a gravel lot for about 20 vehicles and a portable toilet. It sits roughly a quarter mile before the dead end on the north side of the road. Two other access points exist: a roadside spot for a few cars at the end of Greely Road Extension, and a Village Center lot on Wildlife Lane in North Yarmouth.
The preserve is only about 25 minutes from Portland, and cell service in this part of Cumberland is generally good. The Greely Road Extension lot is the easiest place to start and the best signed.
Use the gravel road to the pond if you have a stroller or want an easy out-and-back, then save the primitive trails and the two hills for a day when you have proper boots. The side trails hold long muddy ruts well after the gravel road has dried out.
When to Visit
Spring
Green and lively, but the primitive trails run muddy and rutted. Stick to the gravel road early in the season. Ticks pick up.
Summer
Shaded woods and a swimmable feel by the pond. Bring bug spray for the wetter side trails near the water.
Fall
Firm footing, color in the oak-hickory woods, and the clearest views from Bruce and Blueberry hills. The best all-around season.
Winter
A quiet local option for a snowy walk or snowshoe. The gravel road stays easy to follow under snow.
Fall gives you the driest trails and the best hilltop views. The gravel road makes Knight’s Pond a worthwhile stop in any season, even when the side trails are muddy.
Packing List
Knight's Pond Day Hike
- Boots that can handle mud on the side trails
- 1 to 2 liters of water
- Bug spray and tick protection
- A snack for the hilltops
- A trail map or app for the color-blazed network
- Microspikes in winter for icy stretches
FAQ
How long are the trails at Knight's Pond Preserve?
The preserve has 6.5 miles of trails over 334 acres. You can build loops of various lengths around the 46-acre pond and up to Bruce and Blueberry hills.
How hard is the hike?
Moderate overall, but flexible. The gravel road to the pond is easy and stroller-friendly, while the primitive side trails are rocky, rooty, and often muddy.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs are permitted on leash or under voice control, and owners must clean up after them.
Where do you park?
The main lot is at 477 Greely Road Extension in Cumberland, with space for about 20 cars and a portable toilet. There are smaller access points at the end of Greely Road Extension and on Wildlife Lane in North Yarmouth.
What are the views like?
Bruce Hill (447 ft) and Blueberry Hill (451 ft) both give views, including Casco Bay and Cousins Island, with a winter glimpse of Mount Washington from Blueberry Hill.
For another easy climb just up the road, head to Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal, or walk the shore at Winslow Memorial Park in Freeport.
