The Best Farm pond hike in Chelmsford, Massachusetts

Welcome to Thanksgiving Forest Reservation, a breathtaking 45-acre town forest nestled in the heart of South Chelmsford, Massachusetts. Located at 40 Janet Road, this enchanting park and tourist attraction offers a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Adjacent to the charming "Farms 1" neighborhood, Thanksgiving Forest Reservation is a natural haven that borders the scenic west bank of Russell Mill Pond and connects seamlessly to the expansive Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle. Steeped in history, the forest derives its name from a cherished local tradition: an annual Thanksgiving Day fox hunt, where townsmen would gather at the forest's iconic mass of boulders. Today, visitors can still marvel at these massive outcroppings and explore the diverse mix of hardwood and softwood trees that grace the landscape.

The Thanksgiving Ground Forest is a stunning 45-acre Town Forest located at 40 Janet Road in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, United States. Situated next to the "Farms 1" neighborhood in South Chelmsford, this park is a popular tourist attraction. The forest borders the west bank of Russell Mill Pond and Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle to the south. Its name originates from the traditional Thanksgiving Day fox hunt gathering of the town's men at a cluster of boulders. With its pond frontage, the forest offers excellent water-based recreational opportunities, with easy access for canoes from Janet Road or Gary Road. The trails connect to Great Brook Farm State Park, providing even more outdoor exploration. The forest features a mix of both hard and soft woods, as well as impressive outcroppings of ledge and massive boulders. At the southern end of the forest, visitors can enjoy the picturesque Russell Mill Pond and River Meadow Brook. Don't miss the chance to explore this beautiful and historic natural area in Chelmsford.