Papermill Trail / Miller Park - Lisbon, Maine

Sarah S.

Love to walk this free paved path in all seasons, but be warned the conditions are still a little slick (it's early March). Once the weather warms up, I love going here with my little one because it's popular (I never feel unsafe), the scenery is idyllic, and best of all it's stroller friendly! Portapotties in the parking lot and nice wide paths. 10/10!

Robin P.

This is a really great place to come if you like to walk in the woods on a paved, mostly flat trail. There are woodland trails you can follow from the paved trail that go down closer to the river. There's lovely trees at every turn, and the river has some pretty interesting rapids. There are some memorial benches if you need to take a little rest. It's a good place for families and all ages can enjoy a nice stroll in nature here. There are port-a-potties, and a small parking lot as well as a couple picnic tables. You can walk the trail or ride your bike and dogs are welcome. I have enjoyed this park in all 4 seasons. If there's a snowpack, you'll need crampons.

March 2024 update: this time we took the walking path under the highway bridge and really enjoyed it.

Oct 2024: leaves are looking awesome and the acorns will bonk you on the head as you're walking! Don't forget to say hello to the ducks!

Jessica L.

It is a beautiful long walk, fully paved with lots of birds 🐦 🕊🦜 a few trails off from the paved trails if you're feeling adventurous. Wonderful outlooks of the surrounding water rocky streams are lovely to watch and listen to. Some nice spots to have a picnic and enjoy the view.🌈🌞🦋❤️

Amanda S.

This place is so beautiful and peaceful. Great walking path and plenty of places to branch off to get to the water. Will be going back quite often.

Billy-Joe L.

Well kept, dog friendly, very peaceful and beautiful. Great walking trail.

Clayton &. C. P.

April 25, 2021 - Lisbon’s Trail System (LTS) includes 3 trails . . .

Papermill Trail at Miller Park in Lisbon (LTS)

To southeast, Androscoggin River Trail (LTS)

To northwest, Ricker Farm Trail (LTS)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The Papermill Trail is the middle section of Lisbon’s ( Maine) Trail System, with free parking at the Trail heads , either at Lisbon Community School or Miller Park, at Rt. 196.
As you walk to the Trailhead sign, you’ll also notice a plaque that commemorates Herbert Miller’s contribution toward the founding of Lisbon’s Trail System! Our “thanks” to all the folks who contributed to this project!

I enjoyed the 1 mile hike along the Sabattus River northwest through stone remains of old mills, road bridge foundations, and old dam gates. One might ponder Lisbon’s saw mills, grist mills, and textile mills over 100 years ago, that hired many European immigrants who crossed the Atlantic Ocean for jobs? You realize that rushing water was harnessed as the power source for those 18th century manufacturing towns like Lisbon. Halfway into the hike, there’s a big sign display of Lisbon’s manufacturing history.

Don’t miss the sights & sounds along the trail. We noticed a few birds, and small ground creatures on our stroll. There’s one big rock worth a photo, as if you discovered these ancient stone ruins of a lost era. When you reach Lisbon Community School, you could walk the driveway out to Mill Street, there you can pick up the Ricker Farm Trail.

( Ricker Farm Trail is mostly neighborhood sidewalk that goes another 3/4 of a mile.)

History Notes

Pre 1600’s - Abenaki Indians lived in area
1628 - Europeans enter Lisbon area
1700’s - Little River Plantation ( Lisbon Falls)
1799 - Thompsonborough incorporated
1802 - Renamed Lisbon, municipality
1804 - Abnor Coombs built 1st mill
1825 - Cephus Farnsworth expands mills
1860 - Railroad comes to Lisbon
1866 - Morumbo Mill manufactures textiles
Late 1800’s - Population triples, more mills
1876 - Augustine Thompson creates Moxie
1982 - Frank Anicetti starts Moxie Festival
2005 - Moxie official drink of Maine

Sandy C.

I want to thank fellow bicycle rider from New Jersey(Northern),Kristi, for keeping me company during the ride! It's a nice relaxing asphalt path that can easily accommodate walkers, bicycle riders, people fishing, etc. It was easy enough for this out-of-shape person to navigate and feel successful!😃 There's a boat ramp and I saw many people with their kayaks that day!

Dorothea L.

My favorite walking trail. Located in Lisbon with multiple parking areas and multiple trails that all connect along the river. It's safe and away from the road, the whole trail is paved and it's a nice quiet little walk in the woods.