2024 Marathon Level 1, Hike #2: Gristmill Trail

SUMMARY: A short but beautiful stroll along the Far Mill River. There is a bench for relaxing next to an old dam. The trail is only 0.3 mile long each way, but allow extra time to linger.

PARKING:  There are two pull-offs on Mill Street (not Far Mill Street). The main pull-off is located across the street from #171 Mill Street and is marked with a sign kiosk. This is a quarter mile south of Buddington Road.  The second pulloff is located opposite Judson Street. Click link to see on Google Maps.

BLAZE COLOR: White rectangles painted on trees.

TRAIL MAP: Click HERE for a printable trail map (pdf).

DESCRIPTION:  This hike is short and simple. From the main parking area with the kiosk, follow the white blazes towards the river where there is a dam and bench. The trail follows the shoreline to the left (downstream) along a flood plain which is under a raging torrent of water every few years. The periodic floods scour out parts of the trail, so be careful not to trip over any exposed roots or rocks. When you arrive at the 2nd parking area in 0.3 mile, turn around and go back the way you came and acquire the full 0.6 mile of the Challenge hike.