Kiski Trails, Dedham

Tucked into the more than 9 miles of narrow, single-track trails and 1.7 miles of gravel roads here, there are two spots I recommend as destinations: the Overlook and/or the waterfall.

The trail system is geared toward mountain bike riders. But I think you might only want to ride here if you are an advanced technical rider, since the trails are root-filled and rocky. The two easiest trails to bike are Endo Alley and part of the Brook Trail.

If you come here to walk, and are headed to the overlook, I recommend taking the gravel path north from the parking lot to Endo Alley. (Or, you can take the road all the way to Overlook Trail, roughly 0.5 miles.) From Endo Alley continue on to Overlook Trail, which has a couple of prominent signs but, like all the other trails here, no blazes. Overlook Trail climbs 0.6 miles via switchbacks to a ledge with a great view of Phillips Lake.

Then you can head back down and, if you have the time to check out the waterfall, take a left at the intersection with the other gravel road that heads south. Follow this a short ways to the Brook Trail, which will be on your left. Continue along the stream until you come to the falls and the small but deep pool below it. It’ll be about 0.4 miles after you pass the intersection with Ridge Trail.

The other interesting spot is along the 1.3-mile Rail Trail. When the trail swings out onto the railroad tracks, you’ll come out onto a large wetland. Route 1A is close by so it’s not quiet along this stretch.

The trails have trail signs at intersections, but these are often tucked into the trees and sometimes hard to see, so bring a trail map. Also, besides the trail signs, there are no blazes. However, the narrow trails are easy to follow. In some of the trails farthest from the parking area, the vegetation is growing thickly across the path (this was in June, 2021).

Directions: Google maps has Kiski Trails marked accurately on its map, which is helpful because there was no visible sign of the trails from Route 1. Also, because Route 1 is fast, you’ll want to give the cars behind you advance notice of you turning. Once you turn into the dirt road, you’ll see the trailhead kiosk, gate, and small parking area (which had some big potholes when I visited) directly ahead.