Trails at Ipswich River
At Ipswich River you can explore 12 miles of interconnecting trails that wander through forests, meadows, and wetlands.
Following the paths will take you to a vernal pool, an observation tower, along boardwalks, up a drumlin, and on top of an esker. Don't leave before paying a visit to our unique rockery, which was constructed in 1905. This grotto of narrow passages and caves is the perfect for kids (and adults) who love to climb!
Trail Map
Trail Descriptions
Bradstreet Lane
Distance: 0.3 miles
Take the old carriage road located near the visitor center at the top of the hill. It offers views into our fields and woodland habitats. Look for eastern bluebirds as you travel along the edge of the field.
Drumlin Trail
Distance: 1.3 miles
Walk old carriage road and circle around the lower section of a glacial drumlin where this trail gets its name. A wide, easy trail that offers access to a number of our other trails. Stop at the wisteria arbor to take a break and enjoy the blooms in the spring.
Ipswich River Trail
Distance: 0.4 miles
Hike to the edge of the Ipswich River where members can rent canoes to paddle this beautiful, winding river. Located off Bunker Meadow trail.
Rockery Trail
Distance: 0.5 miles
Rockery trail is our most-visited trail. Start at the top of the hill and walk over wetland boardwalks and bridges. Admire the wetlands full of waterfowl, red-winged blackbirds, muskrats and otters. This trail leads to the popular Rock Grotto, a man-made structure built in the 1900’s.
Stone Bridge Trail
Distance: 0.2 miles
The stone bridge offers a great vantage point to observe beavers, their lodges, and many other animals swimming by.
South Esker Trail
Distance: 0.5 miles
Traverse along this elevated narrow trail created by a glacial stream that offers views of the Ipswich River, marsh, and cattail stands. Watch your step as this trail has many rock deposits left behind from a glacier.
North Esker Trail
Distance: 0.3 miles
Located between two wetlands and overlooks hassocky meadow. On this trail you can find forest habitat and wetlands. It leads out to distant trails.