Each year, New England draws tourists from near and far who seek the most stunning array of fall foliage. Merrimac, Massachusetts, is a hub of outdoor exploration with plenty to offer visitors and locals. We’ve got tips on the best hikes near Merrimac to make the most of your autumnal adventures!
Scenic Hikes and Parks to Explore This Season
Merrimac is an excellent blend of convenience and small-town charm. While it’s part of the larger Boston metro area, the residents are proud of the town’s historic character and keep the quaint feel of a bygone era alive.
A lovely destination any time, Merrimac is especially welcoming in the fall. Its trails and wooded paths make for great leaf peeping, and the mild and cool weather makes it a breeze to spend long hours outdoors.
Conveniently located less than an hour north of Boston, and minutes from the NH border, Merrimac is a quick day trip. Here are some of the best hikes in Merrimac and in nearby areas like Amesbury and Haverhill.
Amesbury Town Forest
Amesbury Town Forest features 80 wooded acres with a boardwalk across the Great Swamp. The Great Swamp trail will even take hikers into Greenbelt, the county’s largest land conservation trust.
There are two well-marked trails. The red loop is a straightforward 0.7-mile option that runs along the right side of Town Forest. The green loop is a longer 1.1-mile option. More adventurous hikers looking for a longer trek can also explore some of the smaller trails. Just be sure to keep the map handy!
Maudslay State Park
Just 15 minutes from Merrimac, Maudslay State Park offers 16 miles of trails. The park was formerly an estate, and it features formal 19th-century gardens, a feature that is a beautiful draw for many visitors. The Merrimack River Trail has a picturesque view that winds alongside the river.
Winnekenni Park
Winnekenni Park in nearby Haverhill boasts 700 acres and over 9 miles of trails. The park’s name means “Very Beautiful” in the Algonquian language, and those hiking the park’s trails will easily see how it got its name.
Castle Trail is a 0.8-mile trek that will give you a good look at the Winnekenni Castle, a 1875 structure constructed from glacial boulders. For a longer excursion, hikers can complete the 4.1-mile Lake Loop that encircles Kenoza Lake.
Batchelder Park
Amesbury’s Batchelder Park offers trailheads for multiple area hikes along Powow Hill. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Atlantic, and sunrises are a particularly breathtaking reward for early birds!
The trails across this region include the Batchelder Trail, the Silvermine Trail, and the Powow Trail. Hikers looking for a long excursion can map out a looping trek from Lake Gardner beach to Battis Farm.
Moseley Woods
Just 10 minutes from Merrimac, Newburyport’s Moseley Woods has a 1.1-mile loop overlooking the Merrimack River. The location is especially popular with dog lovers and features picnic areas and playgrounds, so the whole family can make a day of the adventure!
Mill Pond Recreation Area
Ten minutes from Merrimac, you’ll find the Mill Pond Recreation area in West Newbury. The area offers a 2.9-mile trail with moderate difficulty. Many areas allow off-leash dogs, so it’s a great way to wear out your pup as well!
Deer Island
Deer Island is a bit further away, but it’s still only an hour from Merrimac. This unique National Recreation Area features a 2.6-mile accessible perimeter path, as well as two additional miles of trails on the island’s hills.
Tips for Planning a Perfect Fall Hike
There are many things you can do to make sure that your fall hiking near Haverhill, Amesbury, and Merrimac is enjoyable!
Time for Peak Foliage
Peak fall foliage typically lasts between 7 and 10 days, varying by region and the year’s weather patterns. Normally, those visiting the Merrimac area will get the best displays in the third week of October. But be sure to check the New England foliage map for updated information.
The experience will also be shaped by the lighting and time of day. Early morning light is often some of the most stunning for leaf peeping, so getting an early start can make for a gorgeous display. Likewise, late afternoon light can add depth and warmth to red and orange hues, creating an excellent viewing experience (and a wonderful backdrop for pictures!)
What to Pack and Wear
If you’re going to start early or stay into the evening, it’s best to wear layers so that you can stay comfortable as the temperature rises and drops. A lightweight jacket might be preferable at the beginning of your hike, but as you get moving and the sun rises higher, you may find yourself shedding a layer to stay cool.
Whenever you go for a hike, practice good safety habits and check for any weather or environmental alerts before heading out. Let someone know your plans if you are hiking alone, and bring more water than you think you will need.
It’s also a good idea to pack a high-protein snack and a map. Even if you have your phone, it’s a good idea to print out trail maps in case you lose service, run out of battery, or drop your phone somewhere along the way.
BeWell Cannabis: Your Local Stop Before the Trails
As fans of the great outdoors, all of us at BeWell Cannabis are excited to be your local stop before you hit the trails and take in the fall beauty!
Visit us at 17 Broad Street and check out our wide array of products for every type of cannabis connoisseur.
