Maudslay State Park Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Historical Significance · River/Creek

Just off Rte 95, this secluded corner of land butts up against the Merrimack River, boasting dozens of paths and trails for horses, hiking, and cross country skiing. This loop run starts out near the farmhouse of the once-private estate and quickly heads toward the formal garden grounds before continuing along the river north for more wooded mileage.

For visitors who are short on time or to accommodate varying abilities, heading to the formal gardens to explore the historic sites and landscapes can be a nice out-and-back run option.

Educational programs are put on in the summer months.

Parking fees charged year-round: MA resident $5; Non-MA resident $10. Restrooms at the main parking area.

Easy access from Rte 95 with lots of trails.

All trails in Maudslay State Park can be traveled in either direction. This loop run heads clockwise. From the main entrance parking area, turn left and head past the park headquarters along Curzon Mill Rd. Across from the farmhouse driveway, find the Hedge Drive entrance to turn right (north) into the park. Follow this wide path, turning left onto the Well Walk which heads west toward the formal gardens.

At the end of the Well Walk, turn right (north) onto the Main Road as it descends around Tower Hill parallel to the Merrimack River Trail. After just under one mile, turn left (northwest) onto Mile Circle, which joins the Merrimack River Trail just off the Merrimack River shoreline.

After 1.6 miles, a quick uphill will mark the half-way mark near the clearing around Moulton's Hill. A few hundred yards further, look for Line Road heading right (east) to begin the return along the boundary with Arrowhead Farm.

This run stays against the property boundary, linking with Pine Trail back toward the main parking area, but there are a number of trails that cut across this corner of the park. Check out the DCR map or use the Trail Run Project mobile app to find your own way through.

Rhododendrons, dogwood, azaleas, mountain laurel, etc.

For the end of the 19th century and most of the 20th century, this land was part of the Moseley "Maudsleigh" Estate, whose buildings were designed by the locally famous architect, William Rantoul. The land was acquired in 1985 by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and now managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.