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Wendell State Forest
4.5 ★★★★★ 163 Google reviews · Running trail in Wendell, Massachusetts · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Wendell State Forest'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.
Hikers & rock climbers frequent this picturesque open space with trails, boulders & local wildlife.
What runners say about Wendell State Forest
“This state forest has got everything- bears, cool abandoned roads, beautiful camping area with a lean-to, and classic new England mountain biking (rocky, rooty and rugged).”
“The trails are well marked and offer some wonderful views, and there is some of the best outdoor climbing I've seen on this side of Massachusetts.”
“Ruggles pond is quiet most days, uncrowded and swimmable for kids of all ages.”
“Ruggles pond is quiet most days, uncrowded and swimmable for kids of all ages.”
Wendell state forest is a hidden gem. The forest is huge and mostly intact from more than 50 years of no logging. Yes, DCR did log a big chunk of woods there. It should serve as an example of Boston centric natural resource Mgt.
I hiked through on the New England Trail (former M&M trail) and the park was beautiful! The porta potty was very clean and appreciated, and I slept great in the shelter, listening to the babbling brook in front of the shelter. I'll definitely come back again!
This forest is huge. Miles of hiking trails and some really great dirt roads for jogging or biking. 2 beautiful ponds, unfortunately swimming is not allowed, but lots of picnic areas with tables and charcoal grills.
Just found this great state park cruising around w the dogs looking for a new place and love it. They have a great combo of trails and roads very extensive because place is big. Plus they allow snowmobiling and have two small ponds for kayaking/swimming. Bring the bug juice as with any forest there are bugs.
Trail conditions & character
“This state forest has got everything- bears, cool abandoned roads, beautiful camping area with a lean-to, and classic new England mountain biking (rocky, rooty and rugged).”
“Ruggles pond is quiet most days, uncrowded and swimmable for kids of all ages.”
“The trails are well marked and offer some wonderful views, and there is some of the best outdoor climbing I've seen on this side of Massachusetts.”
Plan your run at Wendell State Forest
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- Websitemass.gov
- Phone+1 413-659-3797
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–6:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–6:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–6:30 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–6:30 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–6:30 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–6:30 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–6:30 pm |
Running trails near Wendell
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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Highland Park
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