Talking Brook Public Land, Big Falls

You’ll likely drive for a while on pleasant back-country roads before arriving at this delightful and popular state forest. (Much of Woodman Road and Durham Road is unpaved.)

The trail begins along the discontinued Woodman Road, heading north. If you want to visit Big Falls right away, walk 0.2 miles on Woodman Road and turn right onto the blue-blazed footpath. This path follows Meadow Brook before arriving, about 0.6 miles later, at the small waterfall and pool, tucked into a mossy, shady forest. The trail then loops back toward the dirt road for a roughly 0.7-mile return to the trailhead and parking area.

You can also branch off the dirt road and explore longer loops along footpaths in the woods on the opposite side of the road. The charmingly named and pretty Talking Brook winds quietly through this side of the preserve. Be sure to check out Little Falls and the sweet little chapel along the way.

To reach Little Falls from the parking area, walk 0.1 mile down Woodman Road and turn left onto the yellow trail. After climbing a moderately steep hill, you’ll arrive at the small waterfall in about 0.1 mile. The chapel, dedicated to clearly beloved Frank “Harold” and Marjorie “Marge” Fralich, is another 0.1 mile farther along.

The two brooks that flow through the property — Meadow Brook and upper Talking Brook — are tributaries of the Royal River.

Also, be sure and check out the nearby Norumbega Cidery!

Directions: Parking is available on the right-hand shoulder of Woodman Road, near 402 Woodman Road.