This trail was a pleasant surprise for us. Although our hike got cut short by overtired children (as they sometimes do when you’re hiking with kids…), we still enjoyed the portion of the trek that we finished. If you start at the Indian Head River Trail on Broadway in Hanover, it’s roughly a four-mile loop to Luddam’s Ford Park and back. The portion that we hiked was about 1.5 miles each way. The trail is marked with red blazes and is easy to follow. We walked along what used to be an old railroad bed, high above the Indian Head River. The trail had great views of the water as well as numerous boulders and rocky outcroppings to explore; those are always a hit with our kids! We turned around at the Waterman Tack Factory and backtracked to where we began. Next time, we’ll start at the Luddam’s Ford Park area. There is a lot to see here that is worth exploring, and the history of the area is well explained by the North and South Rivers Watershed Association here. Fun fact: one of the anchors for the USS Constitution was forged here, at Barstow’s Forge (beginning of the trail)!
HOW TO GET THERE
1126 Broadway
Hanover, MA 02339
See the P.I.N.T score and/or trail map for parking options.
TRAIL DESCRIPTION & MAP
P.I.N.T. Score
Rated on a scale of 1 (difficult/not good) to 5 (easy/awesome!)
P – Parking & Access – 1 (Parking is tricky. If you start where we did at the Hanover/Myette’s General Store entrance, there is a very small pull-off on Slate street that fits 2-3 cars. If there is no parking here, you might try parking by the Waterman Tack Factory or on the Pembroke side at Luddam’s Ford Park.)
I – Interest Level – 3 (This might be more interesting for adults and history buffs than for kids. But our little ones appreciated the boulders to climb on and liked the views of the water, too.)
N – Navigation – 4 (The trail is well marked with red blazes.)
T – Terrain – 4 (The 1.5 mile(ish) portion that we walked from Barstow’s Forge to the Waterman Tack factory consisted of wide and relatively smooth forest floor. There is one fairly large hill–up and down–that will take some muscle/control if you have a jogging stroller, but it would be possible with a rugged stroller.)
The P.I.N.T. Score represents our opinions of this trail. It reflects our experience, perception, and physical health. Therefore, the scores are not intended to be expert advice, nor will they be accurate for everyone: we cannot judge what may or may not be appropriate for each individual’s different abilities. Consult a physician or medical expert before attempting any new physical activity. Hiking contains inherent hazards, so hike at your own risk. You should always make your own decisions about what level of physical activity is appropriate for you and your family. Weather and other factors may affect trail conditions. Remember, trail conditions may change suddenly and drastically at any time.
POINTS OF INTEREST
- Barstow’s Forge site.
2. Beautiful views of the river from the old rail bed.
3. Cool boulders
4. Waterman Tack Factory and historic house
Here are some photos from the rest of our hike
Nearby
Unfortunately, Rocco’s was closed for vacation when we visited. But their food looked good! The Lucky Dawg Tavern in Pembroke is also just down the street. Full disclosure: we have yet to eat there. Our kids were too cranky and overtired to justify taking them out to eat after this trip. But the outdoor deck at Lucy Dawg looks like fun! Comment below if you’ve been there and have any impressions to share!
