1. Thanksgiving Ground Forest, Chelmsford
There are a few different access points to Thanksgiving Ground Forest, but I parked at the end of Janet Road. This is a 45 acre forest comprised of bogs, boulders, and creeks. Adjacent to Thanksgiving Ground Forest is Great Brook Farm State Park. We found ourselves walking alongside a cornfield at one point. Of note, I did get a warning from a local that there have been coyote sightings there and for this reason he always keeps his dog on a leash here.
2. The Pines Trails, Tewksbury
As a prior resident of Tewksbury, this is a trail I brought Max to often out of convenience, but also because of its gorgeous views year-round. The trail takes you through pine trees, past a large bog, then out to a large field and down around a corn field. There is also access to the old Tewksbury Hospital Cemetery. We have encountered off leash dogs here a lot, but always friendly and we never had an issue. Many owners allow their dogs off leash to run down to the bog and take a dip in the water. A hidden gem is located right across the street from the cemetery parking lot: Farmer Dave’s. This is a seasonal farm stand that sells fresh produce and home baked goods. I always get the home made sweet potato dog treats. Even though there is food inside, they always
allow Max to come in with me and offer him a dog treat!
3. Weir Hill, North Andover
Weir Hill is a 2.5 mile loop trail that offers great views of Lake Cochichewick. There is a large, free parking lot at the base of the trail. It is a popular hiking spot and it is common to encounter many other dogs along the trail. I have only ever seen leashed dogs here. Max’s favorite part is cooling off in the lake.
4. Mill Pond, Burlington
Mill Pond is a reservoir offering a 2 mile loop around its perimeter. This is also a popular fishing and biking trail. We occasionally encounter off-leash dogs here. There is signage that humans and dogs are not allowed to swim in the reservoir, as it provides water for the town of Burlington. However, the majority of the dogs we have passed on this trail have jumped in at some point to cool off. There is a parking lot at the water treatment
plant on Winter Street.
5. Russell Mill Pond, Chelmsford
Russell Mill Pond is very popular for mountain bikers, so I find the trails are less busy with walkers and we only occasionally encounter other dogs here. There is a large parking lot behind the soccer field on Mill Road with access to the trailhead. Part of the trail follows the edge of the pond, where Max likes to wade in to cool off. His favorite part of this trail is that you can see the horses across the pond! Not far from here is a Pressed Café with a drive through, so every time we hike here I stop by the drive through for a smoothie or lunch. I’ m not sure if he still works there, but there was one employee at the window that would always give Max a milk bone!