Farm Life Meets Outdoor Fun at Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle, Massachusetts

Looking for a park that combines classic New England charm with a wide array of outdoor activities? Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle, Massachusetts, offers a rare blend of pastoral beauty, recreational fun, and agricultural education—all just 30 miles from Boston. With over 1,000 acres of scenic woodlands, meadows, and working farmland, this state park is a beloved destination for families, hikers, nature lovers, and those with a curiosity for where their cheese comes from. Whether you’re coming for the trails or the cows, there’s something special waiting for you at Great Brook Farm.

Top Things to Do at Great Brook Farm State Park

Explore the Trails by Foot, Ski, or Horseback

Great Brook offers over 20 miles of trails that wind through forests, wetlands, and open fields.

Hiking trails ranging from easy family loops to longer wooded routes
Horseback riding permitted on designated multi-use trails (trail maps available at the visitor center)
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing groomed and open during winter months

Experience Farm Life Up Close

One of the park’s standout features is its fully operational dairy farm, which adds a unique, educational twist to your visit.

Watch daily cheese-making demonstrations (seasonal and weather dependent)
Visit the farm store for local cheeses, snacks, and souvenirs
See farm animals like cows and goats up close—great for kids and curious visitors

Recreation and Relaxation for All Ages

Beyond the trails and farm, Great Brook Farm is packed with day-use amenities that make it easy to spend a full afternoon here.

Picnic areas with tables and scenic views of the fields and woods
Playground for younger visitors
Basketball and volleyball courts, plus a baseball field for informal games
Ice skating pond open in winter when conditions allow (bring your own skates)

Educational Programs and Facilities

Great Brook is also a destination for learning and interpretation, thanks to its well-equipped visitor center and seasonal programming.

Visitor center with maps, exhibits, and restrooms
Nature programs and guided walks hosted throughout the year
Group camping available for scouts, schools, and large groups by reservation

What Makes Great Brook Farm State Park Unique?

While many Massachusetts state parks offer hiking trails and picnic spots, Great Brook Farm stands out for its authentic agricultural setting and immersive farm experiences. It’s not every day you can go for a nature walk and then watch cheese being made from milk produced just steps away. The blend of outdoor recreation, farm education, and scenic tranquility makes this park a one-of-a-kind destination that draws repeat visitors all year long. Whether you’re learning how cheddar is crafted or exploring snowy trails on skis, Great Brook offers a rare balance of fun and reflection.

Visitor Tips

Check the schedule: Cheese-making demos and farm tours are seasonal—call ahead or visit the DCR website
Bring cash: The farm store and ice cream stand (open in warmer months) may not always accept cards
Leash your dog: Pets are welcome, but must be leashed and kept away from livestock areas
Layer up: Temperatures can vary between the shaded forest trails and open meadows
Visit midweek for quiet: Weekends can be busy, especially during fall foliage and spring lambing season

Local Tip: Visit in Late April for Springtime Bliss

One of the best times to visit Great Brook Farm is in late April to early May, when the trees begin to bud, the grass turns bright green, and the farm animals return to the pasture. It’s the perfect season for peaceful walks, baby animal sightings, and perhaps even the first scoop of spring ice cream from the farm stand.

From cheese to trails and everything in between, Great Brook Farm State Park is a delightful mix of rural life and outdoor recreation that’s sure to charm visitors of all ages.