Great Brook Farm State Park — Attraction in Carlisle

I had the most delightful experience at Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle! This place is an absolute gem, and I can't recommend it enough for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

The first thing that struck me was the sheer beauty of the park. The serene pond and expansive fields provide a picturesque backdrop for a day of outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking to have a leisurely picnic, go for a hike, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings, this park has it all.

But what truly sets Great Brook Farm State Park apart is the incredible array of farm animals they have on display. I felt like a kid again as I watched the cows, goats, chickens, and pigs go about their daily routines. It's a fantastic opportunity for children (and adults!) to connect with nature and learn about farm life firsthand.

And of course, the highlight of my visit was the ice cream. I couldn't resist trying a scoop, and it was nothing short of heavenly. The flavors were so rich and delicious.

What makes this place even better is that it's an ideal spot for the whole family. There are plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained, from exploring the farm to playing by the pond. It's an educational and fun experience rolled into one.

The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, eager to answer any questions and make our visit enjoyable. The overall atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming.

Great Brook Farm State Park is a true treasure. Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, or simply looking for a great day out with your loved ones, this place has it all. I can't wait to return and create more wonderful memories here. Don't miss out on this hidden gem...

One of MA's finest state parks for easy access to hiking, mountain biking, trail running, and picnicking. $3 to park (Yodel app), and off you go to explore the incredible network of trails that comprise the grounds of Great Brook Farm. You can combine the trails in seemingly endless ways - the network is vast with several spur trails. All Trails has many established routes documented, or you could easily make your own loop trail. There are some ponds and boggy areas, so at this time of year (June) be sure to pack your bug spray!

There is a barn that serves ice cream, however it was not open when I visited (early A.M.) - excited to try this when I go back for another visit!

My only complaint is that despite a multitude of postings stating that all dogs should remain on leash, the vast majority of dogs we saw were off leash. Clearly, no one in the state park office enforces this rule given the behavior we witnessed on our visit. If you are a person that is afraid of dogs, or if you have a dog that is reactive to or afraid of other dogs, I would...

This is a great place to spend a day for anybody. For non-hikers, the farm itself has plenty of friendly, well-cared for animals you can feed and pet. The ice cream is great and a good place to get some air conditioning on hot days (they accept cash and card). The bathroom facilities are always very clean and have a water post next to the building for drinking and even a bowl-like receptacle at the bottom of it for dogs to drink water.

The trails are gorgeous, well-maintained, and not excessively buggy. There are loops of varying difficulties for all kinds, including rocky hills, flat plains-like parts, and standard wooded foot trails. Most everything is a loop (well-marked and labeled I might add), so getting lost is not a concern for the attentive and situationally...