Writing a regular column called “Worth the Trip” has been, more than anything, one more excuse for me to explore the state of Maine.

The name of the column suggests long trips to far-flung destinations, and it’s certainly achieved that over the last four years, as this space has covered Maine from Aroostook County to York, and everything in between. The broad scope makes it easy to forget that there are also destinations that are in my own backyard

Here in Portland, there’s no denying that the Portland Trails network is worth the trip, whether you’re traveling from away or just from the top of Munjoy Hill.

Now in its 24th year, Portland Trails oversees more than 70 miles of trails in Falmouth, Westbrook, Portland, South Portland, Cape Elizabeth and the Calendar Islands. The organization defines itself as a “membership-based nonprofit land trust that preserves green spaces for public access and connects people with places.”

More specifically, Portland Trails lists three main goals in its newsletter: To create and maintain a 50-mile network of trails in greater Portland; to engage the participation of neighborhoods, schools and the business community in trail use and land stewardship; and to make Greater Portland a model for people-powered recreation and transportation.

While these efforts are obviously ongoing, the group’s work has been a huge success. In the “best destinations” and “best cities” lists that frequently include the Forest City, the green spaces and urban trail network are mentioned without fail. Certainly, as someone who walks the Eastern Prom and Back Cove trails on a nearly daily basis, it’s hard to imagine our city without these public trails.

Taken all together, the Portland Trails network consists of 31 trails that crisscross Greater Portland. They vary in length and difficulty, from the .17-mile Jack Path on the East End (which connects Sheridan and North streets) to 5-plus mile routes like the Harborwalk in Portland and South Portland Green Belt walkway. There’s even a long route linking smaller trails into a 10-mile interconnected trek; the Forest City Trail. Created to celebrate Portland Trails’ 20th anniversary, the Forest City Trail runs from the Presumpscot River to the Stroudwater River over nine existing trails – basically the Appalachian Trail of Portland.

Being a nonprofit, Portland Trails is supported by a mix of paying members and donations. A small, dedicated staff keeps the organization humming, doing everything from organizing events, seeking out funding and working on trails themselves. Portland Trails also works with schools with its Land Stewardship and School Ground Greening projects that encourage students, school staff and teachers to act as environmental stewards.

Individual memberships with Portland Trails start at $35 a year, with a slightly cheaper tier for students and seniors and a higher tier for family memberships. Memberships include a copy of the fantastic Portland trails map (designed by local mapmakers Map Adventures), discounts on Portland Trails-guided tours and access to members-only events. In addition to the option of a sustaining membership, you can help out the organization by volunteering to help maintain trails, promote Portland Trails or work at one of the group’s many events.

More information about becoming a member, volunteering, events or pretty much anything having to do with Portland Trails can be found at trails.org.

With over 30 trails and 70 miles to choose from, the network can look intimidating to first-time visitors. While I strongly suggest leaping in feet-first, here are a few of my favorite trails:

Mackworth Island

Accessible via a causeway off Route 1 near the Portland/Falmouth line, Mackworth is home to a pleasant 1.25-mile loop trail that travels the island’s circumference.

Westbrook River Walk

Situated next to the Presumpscot River, this .6-mile trail shows off the august brick buildings of Westbrook’s downtown.

Back Cove Trail

The first and probably best-known trail in the Portland Trails network, the popular Back Cove Trail runs parallel to Baxter Boulevard and I-295 around the eponymous cove.

Fore River Sanctuary

Did you know there’s a local waterfall? The 102-acre sanctuary is home to Jewell Falls and some short, interconnected trails.

Riverton Trolley Park

Being a fan of Portland’s local beer scene, I have a special spot in my heart for the Trolley Park – neighbored by breweries Allagash, Foundation and others. The 2-mile trail connects to farther trails on Riverside Golf Course.

Josh Christie is a freelance writer and lifetime outdoors enthusiast. He shares column space in Outdoors with his father, John Christie. Josh can be contacted at:

joshua.j.christie@gmail.com