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Willowdale State Forest
4.7 ★★★★★ 233 Google reviews · Running trail in Ipswich, Massachusetts · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Willowdale 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.
Forest and trail system for hiking, biking and horseback riding.
What runners say about Willowdale State Forest
“Willowdale State Forest offers diverse trails for all levels, winding through over 2,000 acres of scenic woods and wetlands.”
“It’s perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, with well-marked paths leading to peaceful ponds, streams, and impressive rock formations.”
Huge reserve with tons of trails. We hike here often and almost never walk the same set of trails twice. There is always something new to see or a new entry to try. Lots of variation from wetland to old growth pine forest to riverside and open field. We see horses, bikers, hikers, and runners. Highly recommended.
Amazing trail, so calm and Woody! Some party of trails are so dense that you feel deep inside the forest. The afternoon sun dappled the forest floor, painting the packed earth of the trail in shifting patterns of gold and shadow.
Willowdale State Forest is very large and spreads from both sides of route 1 and the paths throughout the woods can take you from town to town so make sure to have a map of some sort. The side near Marini Farm in Ipswich is great for mountain biking snow, rain, or shine.
Willowdale State Forest offers diverse trails for all levels, winding through over 2,000 acres of scenic woods and wetlands. It’s perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, with well-marked paths leading to peaceful ponds, streams, and impressive rock formations.
Trail conditions & character
“Willowdale State Forest offers diverse trails for all levels, winding through over 2,000 acres of scenic woods and wetlands.”
“There's solid technical stuff but nothing like so many of the other rides in the area.”
“It’s perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, with well-marked paths leading to peaceful ponds, streams, and impressive rock formations.”
“My wife and I took our gravel bikes and found plenty of trails for our entry-level skills.”
Plan your run at Willowdale State Forest
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- 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(978) 887-5931
Running trails near Ipswich
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Bialek Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 124 reviews
Park featuring a playground, basketball courts, and baseball fields, plus skateboarding and picnic areas.
