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Thomas Prince Nature Trails Hike

Quick Facts

  • Distance: 2 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Restrictions: Non‑motorized use only, Trails are closed during school hours

Trailhead

  • Park at the Thomas Prince School (TPS) parking lot on Route 62, east of Princeton.
  • Google Map link
  • The recommended starting point—the Laurel Trail—is across the field to the left when you’re facing the back of the school property.

Description

This easy, mostly flat loop travels through the woods and fields behind Thomas Prince School. Students use these trails during the school year, and the loop described here follows the outer edge of the property with a short spur to Babcock Brook. Expect mountain laurel thickets, open forest, and a meadow slowly returning to woodland.

Route Details

1. Start at the Playground

  • Walk to the right side of the playground to see the kiosk and trail map created by TPS students.

2. Begin the Laurel Trail

  • Head back toward the woods behind the ball field. Enter the Laurel Trail, which winds through a large stand of mountain laurel.
  • Laurel blooms in June and is beautiful after winter snow.
  • Stay left at any connector trails until you reach the Circle Trail.

3. Visit Babcock Brook

  • Turn onto the Circle Trail, then take a short left onto the Brook Trail to reach Babcock Brook.
  • After exploring, return to the Circle Trail and turn left.

4. Loop Through the Meadow

  • Continue on the Circle Trail until it meets the Meadow Trail.
  • Turn left to follow the Meadow Trail around the meadow loop.
  • When the loop ends, stay left along the large soccer field to return to the TPS parking lot.

Notes

Plans are underway to rebuild the paths near the kiosk to improve accessibility and replace several bridge structures.

Other Ways to Explore

  • Start directly from the kiosk which is located down past the back of the school, and choose from several trail options.
  • Shorten or lengthen your hike using the smaller connector trails.
  • Reverse the loop for a different experience.
  • Wander the informal paths in the meadow—many aren’t shown on the map but are fun to explore.

History

The TPS nature trails were created through the vision of science teacher Joanne Blum, with support from school staff, town volunteers, and Mass Audubon. Mass Audubon continues to assist with trail maintenance.

 

Map

 

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