Hilton-Winn Preserve
Visiting the Preserve
Whether you’re fascinated by local history or just looking for lovely views of wetlands and forest along the Ogunquit River, there’s something for everyone on the Hilton-Winn Preserve’s 1.5 miles of varied trails. Explore vernal pools, dense forest, and farm fields, along with the rocky stream and waterfall at the old milldam site that disappears from maps beginning in 1856. This was likely the location of an abandoned sawmill or gristmill. Maps from this time also show a house, and you may find its cellar hole during your journey.
The preserve is open from dawn to dusk.
Download a Trail Guide
Click here to download a PDF trail guide!
Natural History
The Hilton-Winn Preserve includes a mosaic of varied landscapes. You’ll find low-lying forested wetlands with vernal pools, riparian areas, dense upland forest, and agricultural fields. The preserve is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species including cardinal flower, wood lily, flying squirrel, snowshoe hare, river otter, and Northern goshawk.
Cultural Heritage
The Hilton and Winn families’ farmstead dates back more than 200 years. However, prehistoric artifacts found onsite indicate that the land was occupied much earlier than that. Donated by the late Ethel Hilton, these 195 acres are part of the Mt. Agamenticus to the Sea Conservation Region.
We acknowledge that our preserves sit on Abenaki lands. We extend our sincere gratitude and respect to these original caretakers of this land, and to all other Wabanaki people who have a relationship with this land.
Amenities and Trails
Follow Berwick Road north three miles from its junction at Route 1 in Ogunquit to the preserve entrance and parking lot. Hilton-Winn includes two trails covering 1.5 miles of varied terrain with .25 miles of boardwalk through forested wetlands along the Ogunquit River.
Allowable Uses
Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, nature study, and hunting are all allowed. Click here to read York Land Trust’s Hunting Policy. Motorized vehicles are prohibited.
Preserve Details
Want To Learn More?
Interested in helping with our efforts to protect unique areas like this preserve? Visit our volunteers’ page here.
Dogs
Please keep dogs leashed at all times, pick up after your pets and remember, “Take only pictures; leave only footprints.”
