The Pool Preserve in Union offers old-growth hemlocks, rolling falls, and some of the best trout fishing on the St. George River. While geographically small at only 3 acres, this preserve has over 1,500 feet of frontage along the river south of Sennebec Pond in Union where there are known populations of the threatened brook floater mussel.

Note: There is no winter access at this preserve due to road closure.

Conservation History

One of the locks in the historic Georges River Canal system was located here; its remnants can be seen from the pool that is just north of the parking lot. A portion of this property was donated in 2003 by the Sennebec Lake Association, who held the title to this property for over 40 years to access the historic Hills Mills Dam used for hydropower in the 1990s. There are also the ruins of an old sawmill located here. 

Trails
Main Trail

The parking lot is located off Sennebec Road at the bottom of a long gravel drive. The trail on this side of the river follows an old logging road, traveling about a quarter of a mile along the river. Heading down river from the parking lot, the trail leads to a hemlock grove with two pools that are popular spots to fish and swim. Heading up the river, the trail leads to more fishing spots and historic remnants of the Georges River Canal system.

Length: 0.25 miles

Width: 6 feet

Surface: Packed earth

Obstacles: Occasional rocks and roots

Fisherman’s Trail

Off of Route 131, there is a 4 car pull off in front of a kiosk where users can access the western side of the Pool Preserve. This trail travels through private land to access the preserve and we remind users to please respect the land they are on and stay on the designated trails. Users can hike a tenth of a mile down to the river where there are several popular fishing locations.

Length: 0.25 miles

Width: 3 feet

Surface: Packed earth

Obstacles: Rocks, roots, uneven ground

River Access

The Pool Preserve is a possible pull-out or launch location for paddlers. Heading down stream, paddlers will shortly reach Round Pond and Seven Tree Pond. The St. George River Trail extends from the Gibson Preserve in Searsmont down to Thomaston Boat Launch, with various access points along the way. Paddlers can visit our River Trail page for more information or call our office with questions.