Climb through a forest of beech, hemlock, and birch to reach an unparalleled wilderness vista, then explore Spirit Falls as it rolls down the mountainside.
At Jacobs Hill, forest-covered trails connect two spectacular ledges and afford truly unspoiled views of Tully Mountain, Mount Grace, and the Berkshire Hills. Down below, glimpse Long Pond and the East Branch of the Tully River, which winds slowly toward Tully Lake. Little Pond, a classic northern bog whose concentric rings of black spruce and tamarack surround open water and a mat of sphagnum moss, lies at the eastern edge of the reservation.
The viewpoints offer great views of the surrounded wooded landscape, Long Pond and Tully Lake.
Moving south along the trail, a stream tumbles and weaves 200 feet down the ridgeline over a quarter-mile, creating Spirit Falls. A section of the trail diverges alongside the streambed to connect with the 22-mile Tully Trail. To reach The Ledges, cross the stream at the top of Spirit Falls.
FREE to all.
Year-round, daily, sunrise to sunset. Allow a minimum of 1 hour.
Please note that the parking area is not plowed in the winter.
Route 68
Royalston, MA 01331
Email: info@thetrustees.org
Ger directions on Google Maps.
From Rt. 2: take Exit 77. Follow Rt. 2A into Athol. At the intersection of Rt. 2A and 32 in Athol, cross Millers River Bridge and bear right onto Chestnut Hill Rd. (becomes Athol Rd.) north toward
Royalston.
From Royalston Center:
Follow Rt. 68 North 0.5 mi. to entrance and parking (3 cars) on left.
We recommend that you take a photo of the map on your phone so you can refer to it during your visit, or download a trail map before you head out.
Property Acquisition History
Original acreage purchased in 1975 with funds given anonymously. Additional land purchased in 1978 and 1994.
Nice quick hike! Some good views at the overlook and Spirit Falls.
– Frank Georges, Google Review