Town Forest, Cumberland

Within the past few years, this town trail has been marvelously updated. The main loop, which begins and ends close to the town office, is about 1.4-miles, and swings through forest with mature pines. It is wide and easy, accessible for any kind of walker, even wheelchairs, though the town recommends all-terrain tires. But I think most wheels should be fine on this surface, based on the condition of the trail during my recent visit. There’s one small dip at the far end of the loop. The forest seems well used by locals.

Additionally, you can branch off the main trail and head over to Drowne Road and the ballfields via three side paths. These connector trails are also wide, flat, and easy. The leg along Drowne Road follows the sidewalk.

Additionally, on the other side of the preserve, you can leave the main loop via short non-accessible trails, heading over to Stiles Way. You can walk along the dirt road to a 0.5-mile mown trail that encircles the town brush facility. Along the way, you’ll notice an odd concrete platform with steps, like a train platform!, which overlooks a vernal pool and beyond it, the railroad tracks.

Directions: The trailhead is behind the Cumberland Town Hall (290 Tuttle Road) and the old Drowne Road School on Tuttle Road, 0.9 miles from Route 9, and 2.4 miles from Middle Road.