In honor of our recent Topsham listings, I decided to write about the Androscoggin River Walk that connects Topsham and Brunswick.
This 1.25 mile loop crosses the Androscoggin twice. The first crossing is the Frank J Wood Bridge car and pedestrian bridge. The second crossing is the “Swinging Bridge“, a pedestrian suspension bridge built in the late 1800s. At the time its primary function was to provide Topsham mill workers access to the Cabot Mill in Brunswick. The Frank J Wood Bridge offers excellent views of the hydro-electric dam falls and the Pejepscot Mill. The swinging bridge was built by John A Roebling's Sons Co., which built the world famous Brooklyn Bridge.
While the loop isn’t a real hike, and is paved for its entirety, it is a fun way to get some exercise. The Brunswick side is a little more exposed to traffic and has a short section along Route 1. However, the Topsham side is mainly a secluded walk along the river in the woods. As you approach the Frank J Wood Bridge (Topsham Side) there is a privately maintained garden and labyrinth that is open to the public, which is very unique and nicely put together.
If you are in Topsham/Brunswick and have a half hour to spare, I highly recommend checking this loop out before continuing your walk into downtown Brunswick for a donut at Frosty’s, some pizza at Nomad, or a beer at Moderation!
Riverwalk Map & Directions - Androscoggin Brunswick-Topsham Riverwalk (androscogginriverwalk.org)
