Turtle Hill Trail – Willowdale State Forest loop from Ipswich
Turtle Hill Trail – Willowdale State Forest loop from Ipswich
2.6
(23)
37
riders
Turtle Hill Trail – Willowdale State Forest loop from Ipswich
02:21
30.7km
230m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
490 m
Ipswich River Pedestrian Crossing
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
4.06 km
Pine Swamp Road Conservation Area
Nature Reserve
12.7 km
Turtle Hill Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
19.6 km
Thunder Road Trail, Willowdale and Cleveland Farm State Forest
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
23.6 km
Randalls Crossing
Highlight • Trail
24.3 km
Willowdale State Forest
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
26.9 km
Pine Swamp
Nature Reserve
30.7 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
12.7 km
8.76 km
8.64 km
565 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
16.6 km
6.19 km
3.93 km
2.66 km
918 m
411 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 9 July
31°C
18°C
25 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a solid mountain biking loop that offers a true taste of New England's wooded trails without being overly punishing, the Turtle Hill Trail – Willowdale State Forest loop from Ipswich is an excellent choice. This moderate 19.1-mile (30.7 km) route packs in 740 feet (226 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 21 minutes to complete. It's perfect for riders who want a diverse forest experience and a good workout, making it one of the most popular mountain biking destinations north of Boston.
What to expect on Turtle Hill Trail – Willowdale State Forest loop from Ipswich
Expect a journey through classic Essex County mixed-forest habitat, where pine-oak-hickory uplands give way to red maple swamps and hemlock stands. While the Turtle Hill Trail itself is a lovely wooded doubletrack, you'll find a mix of rolling, smooth, and rooted singletrack as well as wider doubletrack sections throughout Willowdale State Forest. Keep an eye out for the large beaver marsh, a great spot for birdwatching. The route is generally accessible, with the Turtle Hill section having an easy physical rating, but be aware that other parts of Willowdale offer more challenging, technical sections with steep climbs, rocks, and roots, catering to a range of skill levels.
Planning your visit
Willowdale State Forest is known for its extensive network of trails and clear navigation, with numbered signs at main intersections and color-coded loops to guide you. Parking is generally available at various trailheads within the forest. The trails are open year-round, but the best time to mountain bike is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when conditions are driest. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially after heavy rain, as some sections can become muddy.
Trail details
- Distance: 19.1 miles (30.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 740 feet (226 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 21 minutes
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