The best walks and hikes in Georgetown-Rowley State Forest
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Hikes in Georgetown-Rowley State Forest explore over 1,000 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and rolling hills. The terrain consists of a network of wide doubletrack paths and more technical singletrack trails. The area's trail system connects to the long-distance Bay Circuit Trail and adjacent conservation lands, offering options for extended routes.
Best hiking trails in Georgetown-Rowley State Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Bay Circuit Trail Loop, a 7.1 mile (11.5 km) trail that takes about 3 hours to complete. This moderate route follows a section of the well-known long-distance path.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Willowdale State Forest Loop — Willowdale State Forest, an easy 3.9 mile (6.2 km) path. The trail features gentle gradients as it passes through the adjacent forest area.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Bald Hill Loop, a 6.7 mile (10.8 km) trail leading through varied woodland, often completed in about 2 hours 50 minutes.
- Hiking in Georgetown-Rowley State Forest is defined by extensive woodlands, marshy areas, and rolling hills. The interconnected trail network provides routes suitable for different ability levels.
- The routes in Georgetown-Rowley State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 80 hikers have used komoot to explore Georgetown-Rowley State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
2
hikers
12.5km
03:14
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
7.53km
01:58
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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2
hikers
5.21km
01:22
40m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.23km
00:34
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
11
hikers
6.23km
01:36
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Pentucket Pond Outlet Reservoir is an 89-acre pond with a huge patch of heavily vegetated marsh along its northern shoreline. This spot is popular for kayaking and fishing.
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Georgetown-Rowley State Forest is a 1,112-acre state forest with trails that have views of ponds, creeks, and forests.
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Ornes Hill only has an elevation of 85 feet and can be viewed from the Hollow Log Trail. There is a small pond directly northwest of Ornes Hill that can also be seen along the trail.
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Georgetown-Rowley State Forest is a 1,112-acre state forest with trails that have views of ponds, creeks, and forests.
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Turtle Hill is a lovely wooded trail through the Willowdale / Cleaveland Farm State Forest. It forms part of the Bay Circuit Trail, a 320 kilometer (200 mi) greenway connecting the outlying suburbs of Boston. The trail is used by cyclists, trail runners and hikers.
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This is not the best state forest around but if you're close by it's a nice option. I think probably the most interesting feature is it has it's own pedestrian bridge over 95. There are a lot of biker made, non official paths all over the place which can get really confusing. Also, it's a wetland so if you visit at a wet time, especially the spring, there is a good chance your trail could lead straight in to a pond. That happened to me a few years back.
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Surrounded by lush vegetation Crooked Pond is a sanctuary for birds and other wildlife. Enjoy the silence while hiking along the shore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Georgetown-Rowley State Forest?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Georgetown-Rowley State Forest. The extensive network of trails provides plenty of space for you and your canine companion to explore. Please keep your dog under control and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes?
Absolutely. The forest has many gentle paths suitable for all ages. A great option is the Ledge, Marsh, and Long Marsh Trail loop, a relatively short and flat walk of about 2.6 miles (4.2 km) that explores the adjacent Wildcat Conservation Area.
Where can I park to access the trails?
The primary parking area for Georgetown-Rowley State Forest is located off Route 97 in Georgetown. This lot provides direct access to the main trail network. Additional access points and smaller parking areas may be available, but the main lot is the most reliable starting point.
Can I go hiking here in the winter?
Yes, the forest is a popular destination for winter recreation. The trails are accessible for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear with good traction, as trails can be icy or snow-covered.
How well are the trails marked?
Trail markings can be inconsistent. While many of the main doubletrack paths and sections of the Bay Circuit Trail are well-marked, some of the smaller singletrack trails are not. It's highly recommended to use a GPS device or a reliable trail app like komoot for navigation.
Are there any circular walks available?
The forest is ideal for loop hikes. The interconnected trail system allows you to easily create circular routes of various lengths. Many trails are designed as loops, preventing you from having to backtrack on the same path.
Can I connect to other trail systems from the forest?
Yes, one of the best features of this area is its connectivity. The trails within Georgetown-Rowley State Forest link directly to the Bay Circuit Trail, as well as adjacent conservation lands like Willowdale State Forest and Cleaveland Farm State Forest, allowing for much longer, more varied hikes.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The diverse habitat of woodlands and wetlands supports a variety of wildlife. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding, and with some luck, you might spot deer or even the rare Eastern Box Turtle. Always observe wildlife from a respectful distance.
Are there any particularly long or challenging trails?
For those seeking a longer, more moderate challenge, the Turtle Hill loop is a great choice. This 6.4-mile (10.2 km) route takes you through varied terrain in the neighboring Willowdale State Forest, offering a good workout with rewarding woodland scenery.
Is the forest suitable for activities other than hiking?
Yes, the multi-use trails are popular for a range of activities. In warmer months, you'll find people mountain biking and horseback riding. During the winter, the trails are great for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
What do other hikers think of Georgetown-Rowley State Forest?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the variety of trails for different skill levels, and the beautiful marshy landscapes.
Is there anything unique to see in the forest?
Besides the natural scenery, the forest has a very unique feature: a large overpass for Interstate 95 that is covered in colorful graffiti. It creates a surprising and photogenic contrast between urban art and the surrounding woods.
Most popular routes in Georgetown-Rowley State Forest
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