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Princeton Land Trust Bullock McElroy Trails Hike

  • Quick Facts

    • Distance: 1.1 miles
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Elevation Gain: 153 feet
    • Restrictions: No motorized vehicles

    Description

    This scenic loop trail winds through the Bullock–McElroy properties, conserved by the Princeton Land Trust (PLT).

    Highlights include:

    • Walking along a high esker near Krashes Field.
    • Passing through the Bullock and McElroy Fields.
    • Beautiful views of Mount Wachusett.

    The PLT maintains these fields to preserve their open beauty.

    Trailhead

    • Main Access: Bullock Lane, ~200 yards from Route 62. Park in the field. Google Location
    • Alternate Access: Krashes Field parking area. Follow hiking signs to the walking track and kiosk.

    Route Details

    1. Start

    • From the parking area, walk through the field to the kiosk.
    • Continue straight to the second field, then cross to the stone wall at the forest edge.

    2. Bullock–McElroy Loop

    • Before the stone wall, bear left into the woods.
    • Trail winds through deciduous forest (can be wet).
    • At the junction, turn left through a stone wall and follow the broad path downhill toward Krashes Field.

    3. Continue on the Loop

    • Turn right to follow the loop beside Krashes Field.
    • Trail passes through woods (wet at times) and climbs the steep side of the esker.
    • At the top, turn left for a viewpoint, then retrace your steps along the esker ridge.
    • Notice the large basin on your right.
    • Continue through the woods to the next junction.

    4. Return

    • At the Connector Trail, turn left back to the open field.
    • Walk through the field to the kiosk and Bullock Lane trailhead.
    • Pause at the McElroy dedication stone for a fine view of Mount Wachusett.

    Other Options

    • Krashes Field Viewpoint: Stop at the top for sweeping views of Mount Wachusett.
    • Cary Trail Spur: Adds ~0.5 miles. Connects to Merriam Road (can be wet).
    • Central Princeton Loop: A 5-mile route linking Bullock–McElroy with PLT Peabody and Princeton Center properties.

    Historical Notes

    • The esker and glacial bowls near Krashes Field were formed ~20,000 years ago.
    • Glaciers up to 1–2 miles thick carved these features, leaving behind the striking landscape you see today.

Map

 

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