Last updated: February 21, 2025
Thing to Do
Winter Hikes
Hendrickson
Please Note: The Hike on 2/22/2025 at Blackall/Ballou has been canceled due to hazardous icy conditions on the trail
Walk into Winter!
Take a hike with us this winter!
During the months of December, January, and February, rangers will lead outdoor hikes throughout the Blackstone Valley. Enjoy the crisp air and explore new or familiar territory during the colder months.
Please wear sturdy footwear and comfortable gear suitable for the weather. Many hikes will cover uneven terrain (expect exposed roots, rocks, and mud). Bring your own water and wear orange, particularly during January hikes. Hikes will proceed in the case of light rain, but staff will cancel events if harsh or dangerous conditions are expected.
All hikes begin at 10:00 AM.
Upon arrival at the starting point, look for signs to indicate parking locations.
For all programs, seek additional information and updates/cancellations on our website and Facebook.
Hike Schedule
December 21 - Rice City Pond to Overlook (Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation)
Description: Kick off our Winter Hike Series with a jaunt through the woods that culminates in a scenic view of the Blackstone River Valley from Lookout Rock.
Details:
Coordinates: 42.09966 N, 71.61941 W
Parking (GPS): Rice Pond, 390 Hartford Ave E., Uxbridge, MA
Length/Miles: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Hazards: Exposed roots and rocks
December 28 - Mercy Woods Preserve (Cumberland Land Trust)
Description: Enjoy paths of contemplations as we explore the trails at the Mercy Woods Preserve. This picturesque preserve offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Blackstone Valley in winter.
Details:
Coordinates: 42.01464 N, 71.41265 W
Parking (GPS): Turn off Wrentham Rd (Route121) on to Sumner Brown Rd. Parking is available on the Right after turning onto Sumner Brown Road Cumberland, RI.
Length/Miles: Roughly 3
Difficulty: Moderate
Hazards: Exposed roots and rocks
January 4 - West Hill Dam (Army Corps of Engineers)
Description: Check out a modern example of water management as we trek over the West Hill Dam and explore trails managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Details:
Coordinates: 42.10423 N, 71.60822 W
Parking (GPS): 518 Hartford Ave E, Uxbridge, MA
Length/Miles: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Hazards: *Hunting allowed on site*, exposed roots and rocks
January 11 - Moshassuck River Preserve (Nature Conservancy)
Description: The Moshassuck River served an important role as a connection between the Blackstone River and the bustling seaport of Providence. Join us as we walk along Nature Conservancy trails that give new perspectives on industrial history.
Details:
Coordinates: 41.91456 N, 71.44240 W
Parking (GPS): 3 Sherman Ave, Lincoln, RI
Length/Miles: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Hazards: Exposed Roots and Rocks
January 18 - Booth Pond (North Smithfield Conservation Commission)
Description: Booth Pond nature preserve sits in a highly developed area, but it is an important refuge for certain animal species like dragonflies and salamanders. Hike and learn how a fishless pond is still teeming with life.
Details:
Coordinates: 41.97906 N, 71.50582 W
Parking (GPS): Booth Pond Way, North Smithfield, RI. (or 11 Dowling Village Blvd)
Length/Miles: 2 - 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Hazards: Some Wet areas and exposed roots
January 25 - Peppercorn Hill (Upton Conservation Commission)
Description: Join us in Upton for our most challenging hike yet. Peppercorn Hill has multiple elevation changes, but the hard work pays off with a picturesque view of the valley. Participants should be in good physical condition and be prepared for a strenuous hike.
Details:
Coordinates: 42.18460 N, 71.55709 W
Parking (GPS): Parking lot opposite side of road from 55 Crockett Rd, Upton, MA.
Length/Miles: 3.25 miles
Difficulty: Difficult
Hazards: Uphill Elevated slopes, exposed roots and rocks
February 1 - Castle Hill Farm (Town of Northbridge)
Description: Join us on an adventure through the lands of Castle Hill Farm in Northbridge, MA. This farm site has a rich history and deep connection to the Whitin family, who made a textile empire in Northbridge. Learn more about this landscape and the links between farms and factories.
Details:
Coordinates: 42.10485 N, 71.66858 W
Parking (GPS): 174 Castle Hill Rd, Whitinsville, MA.
Length/Miles: Roughly 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Hazards: Slopes and exposed roots
CANCELED DUE TO UNSAFE CONDITIONS - February 8 - Wolf Hill (Smithfield Conservation Commission)
Description: Wolf Hill Forest Preserve offers a look into a quintessential New England landscape. Accompany us as we traverse this rocky terrain to take in the beauty the Blackstone Valley has to offer.
Details:
Coordinates: 41.89839 N, 71.54025 W
Parking (GPS): 5 Waterview Drive, Smithfield, RI
Length/Miles: 2.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult
Hazards: Some uphill elevation with exposed roots and rocks
February 15 - Hopedale Parklands (Hopedale Conservation Commission)
Description: As one of the six sites that comprise Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park, Hopedale played a vital role in the progression of the Industrial Revolution. Citizens of Hopedale have enjoyed the Parklands for over a hundred years, and we invite you to join us as we do the same.
Details:
Coordinates: 42.13489 N, 71.54409 W
Parking (GPS): 1 Hopedale St, Hopedale, MA (Parking along pond side of Hopedale Street).
Length/Miles: Roughly 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Hazards: Exposed Roots
CANCELED DUE TO UNSAFE CONDITIONS - February 22 - Blackall Family and Ballou Farm Preserve (Cumberland Land Trust)
Description: Venture out with us and trek through the Blackall Family/Ballou Farm Preserve in Cumberland, Rhode Island. Explore trails preserved by the Cumberland Land Trust and see remnants of farming communities lost to time.
Details:
Coordinates: 41.98340 N, 71.46701 W
Parking (GPS): 3751 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI
Length/Miles: 3.2
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Hazards: Some Wet areas with Exposed Roots and Rocks
Presented in partnership with: The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Cumberland Land Trust, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Nature Conservancy, North Smithfield Conservation Commission, North Smithfield Heritage Association, Upton Conservation Commission, The Northbridge Conservation Commission, Town of Northbridge, Smithfield Conservation Commission, Hopedale Conservation Commission, and Town of Hopedale.
Details
Duration
60-90 Minutes
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
Yes
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Locations vary by week
Reservations
No
Season
Winter
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
Hikes will be on varying terrain features. Footing can be uneven and visitors should wear sturdy walking/hiking shoes. These programs are not wheelchair accessible. Voice amplification will be worn by Ranger in outdoor settings. Participants should be in good physical health and able to walk extended distances without sitting down.
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