Biddeford for the Adventurers
There is much to do in this city by the falls! Biddeford native Emma Bouthillette offers up several adventures to enjoy, but there is so much more to discover. Find your own adventure by exploring HeartofBiddeford.org.
From woods to the water, there is plenty outdoorsy to do without leaving Biddeford. Every adventure needs fuel at some point and the suggestions below have perfect picnic potential, so grab yourself a quintessential Biddeford favorite – George’s Italian – and hit the road!
About a half mile from city center, you can escape into the woods at Clifford Park. Moments after stepping on the trail, you’ll forget how close to urban life you are. When you spot the first red blaze on your left, follow it to loop through the park clockwise. It will take you along where West Brook flows over small falls as it makes its way to the Saco River. This is the source of water that floods West Brook Skating Rink each winter in preparation for a season of ice skating (another great adventure for another day).
Looking more for a coastal experience? Continue driving past the University of New England to discover our three mile stretch of sandy beach from Fortunes Rocks to Biddeford Pool. If birding is your passion, don’t miss the East Point Audubon Sanctuary off Lester B. Orchutt Boulevard in Biddeford Pool, which is also the prime location to spy Wood Island Lighthouse from land.
Another great coastal trail is Timber Point, found at the end of Granite Point Road. The Trust for Public Land trail meanders across the 97-acre preserved peninsula.
If you want to explore the Saco River from a different vantage point, head to Rotary Park. Not only is this public parcel home to a skate park, teen center, dog park, community gardens, athletic fields, picnic area, and small beach, there’s a boat launch for dropping in kayaks or canoes to enjoy a calm paddle above the falls.
If you’re looking for an easy trail to walk or cycle on off the road, the Eastern Trail winds through Biddeford and can be accessed at the far end of Southern Maine Health Care’s parking lot. You can follow the trail south all the way through Arundel and Kennebunk where a pedestrian bridge crosses Interstate 95 for a different view of highway traffic.
