Deer Woods Preserve
Gorham, 30 acres
Deer Woods Preserve was conserved in October 2023. This preserve is a generous gift of forestland by Kathleen Ashley. This land is fully forested, providing important habitat for a wide variety of species including bobcats, deer, and birds of prey. It falls within the largest remaining undeveloped forested block east of downtown Gorham to the coast and is within two miles of over 5,000 people (a third of the residents of the town of Gorham).
Thank you to the nearly 200 supporters who generously donated to Presumpscot Regional Land Trust in order to forever conserve this land.
This preserve is in the homeland of the Wabanaki People. We respectfully acknowledge these People of the Dawn—past, present and future—and their connection to these lands and waters.
QUICK FACTS
Activities: hiking, running, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Open from sunrise to sunset. Camping is not permitted.
This land is forever conserved for wildlife and low-impact recreation. We ask that you respect the land.
Please leave no trace and only take with you what you brought in.
Please stay on the marked trails to avoid damage to the ecosystem.
Dogs under voice control or on leash are welcome. Please pick up after your furry friends.
TRAIL DESCRIPTION
The preserve features flat, wooded trails made up of a mix of four-foot wide boardwalk and natural forest paths with gradual changes in elevation. These winding trails lead visitors through diverse landscapes of upland forest and forested wetlands, offering opportunities to experience the beauty and ecological richness of the area. The trail is a 0.5 mile "lollipop loop."
Map
LEAVING A LEGACY
“In 1980, searching for a home in Gorham near USM where we taught, we found this property off Day Road—woods, wetlands, fields, a pond, and diverse wildlife. For over 40 years, this land has been an unfailing source of pleasure to us and our neighbors. It contributes to Day Road’s reputation as a scenic route. I would now like to gift this land to the Presumpscot Regional Land Trust to help preserve the natural resources and wildlife habitat in Gorham, providing a means of sharing our enjoyment with a wider public.”
— Kathleen Ashley
