Groton Town Forest Loop Trail

This moderate route begins at the parking area at the end of Town Forest Road in Groton, MA, and forms a wide-ranging loop through Groton Memorial Town Forest. Start east on the Loop Trail, which curves south and transitions to Riverside Loop, following a scenic stretch along the Nashua River. Stay left at trail junctions until reaching Wharton Road. Turn left, walk a short distance south, then take another left onto a forest road. This connector loops to Priest Bridge Road. Turn left, then quickly right onto Ridge Rider Trail. Follow Ridge Rider to Lawrence Lane, turn left briefly, then pick up Ridge Rider again as it continues through wooded terrain. The trail crosses an old railroad bed, passes through a short swampy section over private land, and then joins another railroad grade known as Ice Line Trail. Head north before turning right on Pumphouse Road, then stay left onto Ames Pond Road Loop. After crossing Ames Pond Road, continue south toward Town Forest Road. Turn left, then take another left onto the Loop Trail to return to the trailhead. With its mix of singletrack, historic woods roads, and riverfront walking, this route offers a quiet, immersive experience in glacially carved terrain just outside town.