Great Brook Farm State Park

We’ve been living in Carlisle for almost 9 months so it’s time to get off the couch and explore. The weather being perfect right now doesn’t hurt either – 60s or low 70s and cool. The dog and I decided to explore Great Brook Farm State Park for an hour or so. Parking is $2 unless you are just going to the snack barn at which point you can park free for 30 minutes.

There is a working dairy farm on the property so yes, there is even homemade ice cream. I think the sign this morning said 62 flavors and it’s supposed to be good, but that will be for another day. I decided to buy an annual pass at the automated machine for $35 for Massachusetts residents, which will force me to bring the dog often for walks. It also forces me to finally get a state driver’s license so I can show it at a Department of Conservation and Recreation office when I exchange my paper receipt for a hanging pass.

The dog was beyond thrilled to be out on the trails and stopped at nearly every tree trunk and fence post to sniff obsessively. There is no leash law in town so she also watched all the dogs running free, swimming in the murky frog waters, and chasing those of us that put leashes on our dogs. Thankfully most of the dogs today were well behaved and with polite owners.

On the way back to the parking lot (where there are also public bathrooms) I was reminded the farm also offers free tours to see the animals and equipment on the weekends at specific times and during the week by appointment. Time to get the kids back and show them the new white bull and try out one of those ice cream flavors.

Between trails for horses, walking, and mountain bikes not to mention the beautiful scenery, wildlife, and quiet, it’s not a bad way to spend a Monday morning.