#Maine - Pleasant Point Park

"Pleasant Point Park is located on the Simpson Road and is truly the gem of all the Buxton’s Parks. The Park contains some of the most pristine land in Buxton. Enter through the stone gates and walk down Wiggin’s Way, a dirt road that leads you to the most gorgeous point of land overlooking the Saco River. This 60-acre Park is a wonderful place to relax and visit. It is truly a treasure right in our own backyard.

"Follow the walking trail on the south side and you soon come to the ancient burial ground of the early settlers. The sacred ground is well marked with stones around the parameter and simple rocks marking the grave sites. The burial ground is on very high land and has one of the most beautiful vistas of the entire Saco River. Continuing on the same trail weaving back toward the entrance, the foundation of the Woodman home is visible. Imagine the hardship and dangers the Woodman family faced in those early days as they helped shape history as the Salmon Falls village began to prosper.

"The Park provides several picnic tables scatter around the Park, there are NO grills or fire of any type allowed. There is access for hand carry boats, canoes, kayaks and swimming. This area of the Saco River is approximately 50 feet deep (Please note there are no lifeguards on duty). There are several hiking trails, dogs are welcome if leashed and please pick-up after your dog. There is a handicapped accessible portable toilet at the end of Wiggin’s Way. There is limited parking available and please NO snowmobiles or motorized bikes allowed.

"The Park opens at 7 a.m. and closes promptly at. 8 p.m."

Pleasant Point Park History

"Originally called the 'Cyrus Woodman Reservation' Pleasant Point Park was placed in a trust by the Woodman family. In 1923 the Park was given to Appalachian Mountain Club by Mary Woodman.

"In 1945 the AMC gave the Park to the State of Maine.

"In 1959, the town of Buxton received a letter from the State Park Commission saying that they would not entertain the idea of transferring ownership of (Pleasant Point Park) because of the State’s plan to develop the property. However, the plans were not carried out due to the Class “D” (unsuitable for public recreation due to the water quality of the Saco River adjacent to Pleasant Point Park at the time. In 1960 the Buxton Selectmen proposed a lease agreement with the State of Maine Park Commission. At their annual meeting, the townspeople voted it down, again because of the Class “D” designation.

"In 1971 the Town of Buxton entered a 5 year renewable license with the State to use the land with some covenants in place. In June of 1989 the Park was deeded to the Town on Buxton."

More info about the trails:
https://mainebyfoot.com/pleasant-point-park-buxton/

Park history source:
https://www.buxton.me.us/pages/town-parks#five

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