The Ledge Loop

This easy hiking route begins and ends within Freetown-Fall River State Forest, southwest of Assonet and Somerset, Massachusetts. From the trailhead off Bell Rock Road, follow Haskal Path in a northwesterly direction through mixed hardwood forest until it meets Ledge Road. Turn left onto Ledge Road, then stay left again at the Y-intersection to join Upper Ledge Road. This section loops gradually uphill toward The Ledge, a broad granite outcrop overlooking a former quarry operated by the Fall River Granite Company. From the overlook, the route descends and reconnects with Ledge Road before returning to the trailhead. Along the way, hikers pass a mossy water hole near the base of the ledge and an old stone bridge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. While the terrain is generally easy, expect occasional rocky or loose surfaces and possible encounters with motorized users on shared sections. This year-round route offers a short, scenic outing with a mix of natural and historical interest.