Mainepedia
Pownal, Maine

Pownal, Maine

Home of Bradbury Mountain

Overview

Pownal is a small, agricultural town located just inland from Freeport. While it feels miles away from the busy coast, it is best known for Bradbury Mountain State Park. The park is a magnet for hikers, mountain bikers, and hawk watchers, offering a summit with sweeping views of Casco Bay despite its modest elevation.

Key Facts

Population 1,500
Region Greater Portland
County Cumberland
Founded 1808
Nearest City Freeport (10 minutes)

What Pownal Is Known For

Pownal Local Highlights

Bradbury Mountain State Park
Open year-round for hiking and mountain biking. The summit is a premier spot for the annual hawk migration count in spring.
Mountain Biking
The trails on the east side of Bradbury Mountain are considered some of the best technical single-track riding in Southern Maine.

Things to Do

1
Hike to the Summit
It's a short, steep hike (about 0.2 miles on the steepest trail) to the top of Bradbury for picnic views.
2
Hawk Watch
Visit in March or April to see volunteers counting eagles, hawks, and ospreys migrating north.
3
Visit Bradbury Mountain Berry Farm
Pick your own strawberries and raspberries in season.

Living in Pownal

Pownal offers a quiet, rural alternative to the bustle of Freeport and Yarmouth while being minutes away from their amenities. It has a strong farming heritage and protects its open spaces.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 70-80°F

winter

Cold, 20-35°F

spring

Cool, 45-60°F

fall

Crisp, 50-65°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Hawks (Broad-winged, Red-tailed) Bald Eagles White-tailed Deer

How to Get There

Pownal is easily reached from I-295 via the Freeport exits (Route 136 or Route 125).

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Pownal outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pownal known for?

Pownal is known for Bradbury Mountain State Park, featuring a short but rewarding hike to a summit with sweeping Casco Bay views, excellent technical mountain biking trails, and premier hawk watching during spring migration.

How far is Pownal from Freeport?

Pownal is about 10 minutes from Freeport via I-295. The town offers a quiet, rural alternative to Freeport's busy outlets while being minutes from shopping and restaurants.

Is Bradbury Mountain a difficult hike?

No, the steepest trail to the summit is only about 0.2 miles. It's a family-friendly hike offering great views for minimal effort, open year-round for hiking and snowshoeing.