Extend your dog friendly hike at the Emmons Preservation in Kennebunkport, Maine, by visiting the adjacent Tyler Brook Preserve.  The Tyler Brook Preserve is connected to the Emmons Preserve by way of the Batson River Trail.  This 1.3 mile trail winds its way through dense forest, open meadows, and wetlands.  We hiked Tyler Brook during a drought, but there were signs that this could be a muddier hike after heavy rains, and during the spring thaw.  Please note that in order to hike the entire trail you must cross Tyler Brook Lane.  Once exiting the woods onto the road, we found it to be a bit confusing to find the trailhead which is several feet away.  Look for the yellow markers.  Unlike the Emmons Preserve and Smith Preserve, which are also maintained by the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, the trails of the Tyler Brook Preserve are not as well maintained in places, but worth the hike.

Although the rules state that dogs are allowed off-leash under voice control, we were surprised to find in the woods a sign asking dogs be leashed due to free-range chickens in the area.  That’s the first time we saw a sign like that on our many hikes, but somewhat understandable due to the private properties in the vicinity.  If you are starting your hike at the Tyler Brook Preserve, parking is available in a small lot off of Tyler Brook Lane.  If you are doing the approximately 3 mile hike between Emmons and Tyler Brook, parking is also available at the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust headquarters.

For additional places dogs are allowed in Kennebunkport and Kennebunk, including more dog hiking trails, beaches and scenic walks, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page.

Tyler Brook Directions

This trail is located on Tyler Brook Road just off the Mills Road/US Route 9 beside Tyler Brook and just south of Beachwood Road and the Batson River. Follow ME Route 9 north 1.3 miles from Cape Porpoise in Kennebunkport. Access is on the paved road to left side of a private drive with parking available for 4 to 6 vehicles.