Hammond Hill State Forest
Explore scenic wooded trails at Hammond Hill State Forest, offering hilly terrain for hiking, biking, and dog walking. A peaceful natural escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Hammond Hill State Forest
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore scenic wooded trails at Hammond Hill State Forest, offering hilly terrain for hiking, biking, and dog walking. A peaceful natural escape.
"Great hidden gem! Trails are bike and dog friendly, though be prepared for mud."
Wear Sturdy Boots
Trails can be muddy and hilly; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Carry a map or use an offline navigation app to stay on track. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wooded Trail Network
Various loops throughout the forest
Explore miles of well-maintained trails winding through scenic woods, perfect for hiking and biking.
Hilly Terrain
Throughout the forest
Experience a moderate challenge with inclines and descents, offering a good workout for hikers and bikers.
Dog-Friendly Paths
All trails
Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the forest on leash, with plenty of space to roam.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Navigation & Connectivity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Boots
Trails can be muddy and hilly; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Carry a map or use an offline navigation app to stay on track. :iphone:
Check for Trail Obstacles
Be aware of occasional downed trees or other natural blockages on the trails. :evergreen_tree:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the trails, so pack essentials for your adventure. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Boots
Trails can be muddy and hilly; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Carry a map or use an offline navigation app to stay on track. :iphone:
Check for Trail Obstacles
Be aware of occasional downed trees or other natural blockages on the trails. :evergreen_tree:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the trails, so pack essentials for your adventure. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hammond Hill State Forest is praised as a hidden gem with well-maintained, dog-friendly trails suitable for hiking and biking. Visitors appreciate the hilly terrain for a good workout and the peaceful atmosphere. However, some note the trails can be muddy and signage could be improved for navigation.
"Fair number of nice, well maintained trails. Not particularly steep or challenging terrain, nice for a relaxing walk. Not a ton of total length, but there are a number of trails in different loops that you can take to mix things up."
Christopher Parzyck
"Nice trail system through the woods. Can be a busy place with people hiking and running. Large parking lot. One porta potty in the parking lot. Trails are well marked and decently maintained. Were a few trees (as of June 2024) down across the trails in spots."
Michael Brown
"Great hidden gem! There are a number of different trails, all bike and dog friendly. They do tend to be muddy at many points during the year, so be prepared. The parking area is spacious and has never been full when I've been there (many times!). The terrain is hilly so this is not just a casual hike. You'll need boots for sure."
David Syracuse
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main parking lot is accessible via Hammond Hill Road. For GPS, use the trailhead coordinates on Hammond Hill Rd to avoid getting lost on unpaved forest roads.
Yes, there is a spacious parking lot that reviewers have noted is rarely full, even during busy times.
Public transport options are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the forest.
While the primary access is via Hammond Hill Road, there might be other less-used access points. The main parking lot is recommended for most visitors.
Specific driving directions will vary based on your starting point. It's best to use a GPS with the Hammond Hill Rd trailhead coordinates to ensure accurate navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Hammond Hill State Forest is generally free. There are no admission fees or tickets required for general access.
State forests are typically open from dawn to dusk. It's advisable to check local regulations or signage upon arrival for specific hours.
There is no specific entrance fee for hiking or biking at Hammond Hill State Forest. Enjoy the natural beauty without charge.
Reservations are generally not required for casual visits. For larger organized events, it's best to contact the managing forestry agency.
For general hiking and biking, no permits are usually needed. However, specific activities like camping or organized events might require permits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The terrain is hilly with some steep descents and ascents, offering a moderate challenge. Expect some muddy sections, especially after rain.
Trails are marked, but there can be gaps between postings. It's recommended to have a map or navigation aid, especially for mountain biking.
Yes, it offers beginner-friendly trails, but be prepared for the hilly nature and potential mud. Some sections have roll-overs and possible jumps for bikers.
Yes, the trails are generally bike and dog-friendly, making it a shared-use area for various outdoor activities.
The main parking lot has a porta-potty. There are no other facilities like restrooms or water fountains directly on the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The wooded trails offer scenic views, especially during autumn. Look for clearings with good light and interesting tree formations.
While possible, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Be patient and quiet, and you might capture images of local fauna.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions for landscape and nature photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones.
The hilly terrain offers some elevated spots with nice views over the forest canopy, particularly during the fall foliage season.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expanse of the forest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since cell service can be unreliable, it's a good idea to download offline maps before you go to keep everyone on track. While there are no specific playgrounds or facilities for children, the natural environment itself provides ample opportunity for exploration and imaginative play. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited to a porta-potty in the main parking lot.
⛰️ Outdoor Enthusiasts & Fitness Seekers
Be prepared for varying trail conditions; they are generally well-maintained but can become muddy, especially after rain. Wearing appropriate footwear is crucial for both hiking and biking to ensure stability and comfort. While the trail system isn't extensive in terms of sheer length, the interconnected loops allow for customizable routes to extend your activity time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mountain Biking at Hammond Hill
Beginner to intermediate riders will find enjoyable routes, but advanced riders might seek more technical features. Some users have noted that while trails are marked, there are large gaps between postings, emphasizing the need for good navigation. The parking lot on Hammond Hill Road is a common starting point.
Be prepared for muddy conditions, especially during certain times of the year. Sturdy tires and good bike handling skills are recommended. While the forest offers a good workout, some bikers have expressed a desire for more added features to enhance the riding experience.
Hiking and Dog Walking
While the trails are generally well-marked, it's wise to carry a map or use a navigation app, as cell service can be spotty and trail signage isn't always continuous. Be prepared for muddy patches, as the forest floor can retain moisture, so sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended.
The forest offers a peaceful escape, with some visitors reporting having the trails all to themselves, even on a Friday afternoon. The variety of loops allows for different route combinations, ensuring a fresh experience on each visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit