Column: Riding the Penobscot River trails

TIMES RECORD • August 24, 2021

A wealthy philanthropist named Gilbert Butler using his family foundation as a vehicle has constructed a network of crushed dust trails along the East Branch of the Penobscot River in Grindstone. When I arrived at the trailhead located twelve miles north of Medway on Route 11, my misgivings diminished upon entering a spacious parking lot with a huge information kiosk. Just beyond the kiosk, I found an impressive visitor center with restrooms, a communal area, and an information counter. Visitors register to use the 16-mile network of trails. A brochure with a trail map is available. My bike ride was a delight. The quality of the trails was excellent. ~ Ron Chase