West Branch Preserve

Including more than 470 acres in Somerville and Jefferson, the West Branch Preserve protects a lengthy section of the West Branch of the Davis Stream, one of the major tributaries to Damariscotta Lake. Hiking trails and multi-use trails are open to the public.

The beautiful West Branch of the Davis Stream

The West Branch Preserve trail network allows self-guided public access to approximately 7 miles of year-round trails. Much of the preserve land in Jefferson was donated by Joe and Mary Fiore in 1998 to protect the native plants and wildlife, mountain stream and the waters of Damariscotta Lake. An equal amount of land was added in Somerville in 2006 when DLWA purchased land which had formerly been used as a bison farm.

A skier enjoying the West Branch Preserve

From the steeply sloping terrain along the West Branch stream in Jefferson where cascading pools of water flow through a hemlock-lined ravine to the beaver dams and meadows at the base of Haskell Hill on the western side of the Mountain Road, the West Branch Preserve encompasses a diverse array of habitat types.

The Somerville section of the West Branch Preserve offers flat, wide multi-use trails for hikers, mountain bikers, snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, horseback riders and more. These trails pass through a variety of habitats, including fields, forest, wetlands and streams. A historic stonework mill site foundation offers a glimpse back into the history of this property.

In 2012, local Boyscout Lucas Kostenbader constructed a camping lean-to on the Somerville section as part of an Eagle Scout project. This site is now available for reservation by individuals and groups. A nominal donation for use helps to support DLWA’s continual maintenance of this site and the larger preserve. Call 549-3836 for further information.

Camping Lean-to on the West Branch Preserve

Download a trail map here (543KB PDF) or stop by our office to pick one up.

Parking and a trail information kiosk are on the Mountain Road in Jefferson. Please stay on the trail and leave no trace. Enjoy your visit!

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