• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
High Peaks Alliance

High Peaks Alliance

The Local Voice in Land Conservation | High Peaks Region Maine

  • Volunteer
  • Become A Supporter
  • About
    • High Peaks Region
    • Private Land Use Best Practices
    • Board & Staff
    • Sponsors
  • Projects & Trails
    • Conservation & Access Projects
    • Recreation Rangers
    • High Peaks Outdoor Heritage Festival
    • High Peaks Initiative
      • State of the High Peaks
  • Ways to Give
  • Shop
    • My account
    • Cart
    • Checkout
  • News and Events
  • Contact Us
Private Land Use Best Practices | Private Land Use Best Practices | High Peaks Alliance

Private Land Use Best Practices

Respecting Private Lands in Maine's Outdoor Culture

When on private land, Maine’s long history of private land-public access highlights that landowners willingly open their lands and trails to recreational users and traditional sportsmen with an understanding of mutual respect. To maintain this relationship and ensure continued use, users must actively respect boundaries and rules and follow the best practices.

Follow Posted Guidelines

Obtain expressed permission or follow posted guidelines before starting any fires

Share the Trail

Share the trail with motorized users and respect their right to use it

Walk Single File

When passing or being passed by motorized users, walk single file

Familiarize Yourself With Property Boundaries

Familiarize yourself with the property boundaries and avoid crossing into neighboring properties without permission

Leave No Trace

Leave no trace of your visit by carrying out all trash and litter, ensuring the land remains clean and free from unnecessary impact

Stick to Established Paths

Stick to established paths and trails to minimize the impact on the land's natural environment. Do not create new trails or cut switchbacks

Observe From a Distance

Observe wildlife from a distance and refrain from disturbing them. Do not pick plants, flowers, or disturb natural features

Keep Pets Under Control

If pets are allowed, keep them under control at all times to ensure they don't disturb wildlife or leave waste behind

Private Property Respect

When encountering gates or fences on private land, leave them as you found them and close gates to prevent livestock from escaping and maintain the landowner's privacy. Do not break locked or posted gates, and do not trespass

Report Potential Hazards

If you notice any issues, such as damaged trails, potential hazards, or unauthorized activities, report them promptly to the landowner or the appropriate authority
<strong>Responsible Recreation</strong> | Private Land Use Best Practices | High Peaks Alliance

Responsible Recreation

Remember that continued access to private land for recreation is a privilege. It is crucial to actively respect landowners and their property to maintain positive relationships and preserve access for future generations. By following these best practices, you can fully enjoy the beauty of private lands while actively contributing to their conservation and long-term sustainability.

If you want to receive more information about trails and access, sign up for our newsletter.

Your Contributions to High Peaks Alliance Make Conservation in the Region Possible

Become a Supporter

Footer

Contact Info

  • (207) 491-2750
  • PO Box 987, Farmington, ME 04938

Join Our Newsletter

Important Links

  • Our Projects
  • News and Events
  • Become A Supporter
  • Ways to Give
  • Volunteer
  • Download the State of High Peaks Report

Latest News and Events

  • Maine Artist Ronald Parlin’s Prints Gifted to the Alliance
  • High Peaks Alliance Launches Campaign to Conserve Mosher Hill Falls
  • Your Support is Creating Real Change in the High Peaks
  • Voices of the High Peaks: Julie Davenport, District Forester
  • Explore Maine’s Forests with District Forester Julie Davenport
  • High Peaks Alliance at the 2025 Fiddlehead Festival: Join Us!

Join Our Newsletter

Copyright © 2025 · High Peaks Alliance · Non Profit Web Design Services