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Dow Brook Conservation Area Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 40 Google reviews · Running trail in Ipswich, Massachusetts · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- 4.5 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Dow Brook Conservation Area Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Dow Brook Conservation Area Trailhead
“Beautiful spot that never seems to be crowded!”
“A great easy hike, would be good for mountain biking or walking the dog.”
“Lots of variety in different areas, dogs welcome, but watch out for poison ivy - lots of it near the trail in parts.”
Great family trail. We brought our kids ages 9 , 14, and 4, and the trail was not too long or challenging. Lots of variety in different areas, dogs welcome, but watch out for poison ivy - lots of it near the trail in parts.
Drove by this on the way to a customer's house and decided to hike it on the way back. An empty parking area I had all to myself. After applying insect repellent (which is always recommended), I took a picture of the map and headed in not knowing what to expect and how far I was going.
Well maintained and marked trails, however, high wetness potential. Dog friendly. Connects to the Bay Circuit Trail. If you follow the BCT into Rowley you can climb to the top of Prospect Hill. Rigorous hike, but disappointing vista.
Dow brook has established trails for walking, jogging or biking. There are a few downed branches but overall the path is clear. During the wetter months, there are small streams or puddles that require traversing but usually a board is setup.
Trail conditions & character
“Lots of variety in different areas, dogs welcome, but watch out for poison ivy - lots of it near the trail in parts.”
“It was pretty muddy so I couldn't explore the whole place.”
“The parking lot is small but it's conveniently placed adjacent to an ice cream shop.”
Plan your run at Dow Brook Conservation Area Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Distance4.5 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websiteipswichma.gov
- Phone(978) 356-6607 ext. 3
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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