Frank Knowles Little River Reserve Loop

The Frank Knowles – Little River Reserve Loop begins from a trailhead on the east side of Potomska Road in Dartmouth, Massachusetts. From the trailhead, follow the Red Trail heading east through mature forest and past old stone walls as the route crosses into Cornell Farm, a neighboring conservation property managed by The Trustees of Reservations. After exploring the farm’s wooded trails and wetland edges, retrace your steps west along the Red Trail. On the return, take a left onto the Blue Trail to loop through a quiet section of forest before reconnecting with the Red Trail for the final stretch back to the trailhead. This route travels through upland woods, red maple swamp, and salt marsh near the headwaters of the Little River. Elevated boardwalks offer passage over wetter areas—use caution when surfaces are damp or muddy. The trail network is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Although hunting is not allowed within the reserve or Cornell Farm, nearby properties may be active during hunting season; wearing blaze orange is advised. Dogs are welcome under voice control, and the diverse terrain offers strong opportunities for spotting woodland birds like wood thrush, veery, and barred owl.