The Ellsworth Riverwalk, located behind the Ellsworth Public Library on State Street, travels along the Union River to an accessible overlook.

Thanks to community support, FBC was able to transform what was once a short, makeshift path, into a sustainable trail!  The new trail provides a space where Ellsworth residents and visitors alike are able to experience the beauty and wildlife of the river along a tree-lined path, only a few short minutes from Main Street.

Community partners include Frenchman Bay Conservancy, Heart of Ellsworth, Ellsworth Garden Club, Green Ellsworth, The Ellsworth Public Library and the City of Ellsworth.

Trail Description

Starting behind the Ellsworth Public Library, the trail is a short, easy walk along the Union River, ending at an overlook where visitors can stop, relax, and take in a view of the river. Parking is available along State Street or at City Hall.

Frenchman Bay Conservancy is committed to increasing the accessibility of our trails so that all people can enjoy the benefits of nature. As a first step, we have started developing detailed descriptions of our trails that include elements such as terrain, slope, trail width, rest areas, and more so that visitors can make informed decisions about whether a trail is a good fit for their abilities. Feel like something is missing from the description or have any observations to share that can make our trails safer or easier to navigate? Please let us know by emailing info@frenchmanbay.org or calling (207) 422-2328.

Detailed Trail Description: 

The trail begins below the Ellsworth Public Library. Visitors to the Riverwalk can park on State Street or in the City Hall parking lot. Visitors using this lot can cross State Street using the crosswalk that leads to the library. Follow the sidewalk in front of the library downhill, or west, toward the Union River below the library where you will see an FBC trailhead sign and kiosk. 

The section of trail with better access and limited accessibility begins on the left (southwest) side of the library parking lot, where the trailhead kiosk is located. The trail follows along the Union River, is about 3-4 ft in width and predominantly flat on crushed gravel. The trail does begin to ascend an incline where there is a granite bench for guests to rest and enjoy views of the river, 165 feet from the start of the trail. 

Past the granite bench and outlook, the trail may loose accessibility for some users with disabilities. There are are a few steps leading to the next section of the trail which is on native soil with occasional small rocks and roots to step over. There are 3 granite staircases along this section, with 2-3 steps each. There is a sign at the end of the FBC maintained trail, indicating that the trail has ended. The general consensus taken from visitor reviews is that this trail is considered to be an easy hike. 

There is additional access to the trail using the staircase on the right (north) side of the library parking lot, just outside their back entrance. The closest restroom to the trail is through the back entrance to the library (during their business hours), where there are public restrooms with accessible stalls. We ask visitors to remember to practice Leave No Trace when visiting our preserves.