Posted on July 12, 2017 and last updated on December 21, 2024

Chesley Meadows and Runaround Pond, Durham

QUICK TRAIL FACTS

  • Preserve Size: ~350 acres
  • Trail Mileage: ~5. mile loop
  • Pets: yes
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Sights: pond, stream

You can now run around on this preserve on a new loop as of September 2017. (But you can’t run around the pond — the trail system covers ground nearby to the pond.) The loop is roughly a half mile. The nicest part of the easy, wooded trail is at the start, just across the street from the pond parking lot. Here you’ll pass what looks like an old dam and small, pretty waterfall. Runaround Pond is a nice pond that I hear is better for paddling than swimming.

The section of this rather large preserve that is suitable for walking is on a 133-acre parcel managed by the town of Durham. More info at the Royal River Conservation Trust.

Directions: From I-295, take Exit 22 to Freeport/Durham. Turn right onto Route 136 North and drive 6.2 miles. Turn left onto Rabbit Road and continue onto Runaround Pond Road for 1.1 miles. Look for the entrance to the parking area and boat launch on the right. The trails leave from a gate across the road from the recreation area.

Let me know if you have any trail updates or corrections!

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