7. Fore River Sanctuary 2 miles

This 85-acre preserve is the home of Jewell Falls, Portland 's only natural waterfall, as well as the site of the former Cumberland and Oxford Canal. The lowland area, where salt and freshwater marsh meet, provides great bird-watching opportunities. Red oak and white pine contribute to a habitat for many songbirds and small mammals in the upland area. The land around the falls was donated to Portland Trails by the family of Tom Jewell, one of Portland Trails' founders. Open from dawn to dusk, year-round.

From the Congress Street trailhead, the trail passes over the bridge and runs along the former canal towpath at a flat grade for over a half-mile before turning north to cross two boardwalks along wetland areas. As the trail heads uphill into hilly terrain, there is a loop trail which, at its highest point, leads to Jewell Falls . Dogs, accompanied by responsible owners, are allowed in some areas, watch for signs. A short walk down Congress Street sidewalks leads to the Fore River Trail and Stroudwater Trail.

Trail access: Four entrances lead into the Sanctuary from different directions . To enter at south end of the Sanctuary, park in the Maine Orthopedics lot at 1601 Congress Street , using their Frost Street entrance. From the corner of Frost and Congress Streets, follow the Congress Street sidewalk to the trailhead about 450 feet to the west. A Portland Trails sign to the right of the sidewalk marks the trail. To enter the north end of the sanctuary, take Brighton Avenue to Rowe Avenue or Hillcrest Avenue and park at the end of the street. An additional pedestrian entrance is available from the east off Starbird Lane .

To connect to the Capisic Brook Trail, follow a path from Frost Street up to Riverview Street . Walk the length of Riverview Street to Capisic Street to the Macy Street entrance of the Capisic Brook Trail .

METRO BUS Route 4 to Brighton Avenue or Route 5 to Congress Street.