The Maplecroft Trail in Ipswich has been closed temporarily due to poor footing and mud. We expect the trail to be closed for a short time, until the ground dries enough to walk on and for us to make some more improvements to alleviate the situation. We are aiming for a reopening of May 1 but will send out another alert when the trail is open. To receive our trail alerts, click here.
Many other trails throughout the area are also muddy. It is that time of year! Please use your discretion when using these trails and if a landowner has asked us to put up a “trail temporarily closed” sign, please hold off on using that trail. The drier ground will come!
When the trails open, please remember to respect private property and thank a landonwer when you have a chance. ECTA is working hard with many landowners in our 6 towns to permanently protect the incredible trail system across private lands, and any appreciation we can show to our landowners for their generosity goes a long way.
Brief Recap of the Maplecroft Project
Maplecroft Farm was protected in 2010 with financial support from the Mass Dept of Agriculture, Mass Dept of Conservation and Recreation, Private Funds, and the Town Of Ipswich Open Space Funds and landowners willing to consider this conservation option for thier land. ECTA negotiated the donatoin of a trail easement across the land with the landowners in order for the public to be able to experience this incredible conservation project and working farm. While the entire farm remains in private hands, it can no longer be developed, and public access is across the trail only. Wildlife habitat, water resources, agriculture and scenery have all been protected forever. Enjoy it as you drive by, walk by or from the trail.
Maplecroft Rules and Regulations:
Open from 8 AM to Sunset
No Dogs
No Bicycling
Enter only at the trailheads on Argilla Rd and on 133 and please stay on the trail.
Close gates behind you.
WE WILL SEND OUT ANOTHER ALERT WHEN MAPLECROFT TRAIL RE-OPENS