Hopkington State Park Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake

This state park offers something for everyone with options to boat, fish, or swim at the lake, horseback ride, or even mountain bike.

For visitors looking for a nice loop run that samples some of the available trails in the park, look no further. This tour starts from the Split Rock parking area and connects the Aikens Trail, Long Trail, Oval Trail, Hardwood Trail, Pepperbush Trail, and Beach Trail in a clockwise direction.

With lots of little connectors and road crossings, this loop can be shortened for time or ability. Or you can continue to explore the trails south of the Split Rock area toward the Boathouse and beach area.

Hiking trails are not open to bikes or equestrians.

Nice winding trails with some elevation change to keep it interesting.

From the main entrance off Cedar Street, pass the contact station and turn left and then right to the Split Rock parking areas. The closer you can park to where you drive in, the better, as you'll head back that direction to start the run on Aikens Trail. Continue downhill as you head north, looking for the west end of the Long Trail, you've gone too far if you get to Aikens Road. Head east onto the Long Trail as it winds through the northern woods of the park. There are two connectors to your right (south) that link up with the Main Rd.

After ~1.3 miles, the trail crosses Aikens Road (closed to vehicles) and continues toward the eastern boundary of the park where it bends to the right (south). Just over 1.5 miles, the trail will T into the Cross St. Connector. Turn right (west) to head toward the Swimming Pond, crossing over the road again to get to the Oval Trail.

Head along the north side of the Swimming Pool toward Dogwood Drive and turn right to head north briefly on the Hardwood Trail before turning left onto Pepperbush Trail. Before too long you'll come to Birch Street. Turn left (south) to find the Beach Trail and access to the Split Rock Group Area across a field.