Crystal Spring Farm - Garden Trail and Parking

March 14, 2021 - Crystal Spring Farm Garden Trail . . . Fascinating hike for kids & those who enjoy a couple of hours with kids out in nature, just on the outskirts of Brunswick, Maine! I rank this highly for the added attractions that would appeal to kids. . . You’ll enjoy sharing the summer planting wonders of the Thomas Settlemire Community Gardens, before you start your hike. Then as you progress into the woods, there’s the added bonus of a stone Labyrinth! Builds character of the soul, with a story of finding your inner self as you walk the maze toward the center of the stones. While resting on the stone benches, share an adventure with the young ones . . . Days long ago or yet to come?nnThe Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust manages the 300 plus acres of this preservation, once the land of the Pejepscot Indians. Pleasant Hill Road divides the trails into two parts. There’s an East section of trails located behind the Crystal Farm House, where the summer Farmer’s Market is held on Saturdays . We hiked the Western part of the trails; you look for Baribeau Drive, turn onto Maurice Drive head to the end with parking looking directly at the Community Gardens, over to the right you’ll notice the Trail Head ( with a sign board). This is a 1.5 mile loop ( color code Blue) with small side trails (color code yellow) all clearly marked with color maps posted along the loop!nnHistory of this area. . . Brunswick started with Thomas Purchase coming from Europe to this area in 1628. Fort Andros constructed in 1688.nDifficult start with tensions between the French, English, and local Indians. First Parish Church began in 1717, and Brunswick incorporated in 1739. Once water power installed with first dam on the Androscoggin River 1753, population grew with the commercial development of the textile industry. The Crystal Spring Farm was a grant of 160 acres to Robert Spear in 1738, who sold it to the Woodside family in 1783. This family held ownership until Dr. Dionne bought the dairy farm in 1941. The old farm house was built in 1900. The farm across the street belonged to Josiah Melcher in 1780. Eventually Dr. Dionne purchased the Melcher farm too. Dr. Dionne moved the town hall clock to the barn tower in 1961 . . . it’s current spot!nnBTLT -Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust (created in 1985) “Hits Different” for their dedication to preserving and providing these opportunities for our posterity!nnNote: Sorry to point out last photo of plastic bags with doggie waste . . . Come on folks don’t leave that lying around!

Great place for a walk or trail run in Brunswick. Near the trailhead is a labyrinth you can walk to clear your mind (surrounded by trees and nature).

Great place to run or walk. Trail maps at most junctions and signs at them all.

Easy parking and access to the Crystal Springs Farm trail system. Maps available at trailhead. Labyrinth just a short walk from parking.

Loved it