Are you ready to explore a unique geographical wonder? Today, we're venturing to a place where three states converge!
In this edition of Worcester Walks, we return to the vast Douglas State Forest, spanning almost 6,000 acres, for the final installment of our three-part exploration of its extensive trail network. And this time, we're aiming for a landmark that's truly one-of-a-kind: the intersection of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.
The Douglas State Forest shares its borders with both Connecticut and Rhode Island, and at its southwestern tip, a single step can transport you between these states. We began our journey from one of the numerous trailheads along Southwest Main Street, and the trek to the tri-state marker was approximately a mile long, crossing Rocky Brook and following the Southern New England Trunkline rail trail.
The Massachusetts-Connecticut border is marked by a modest stone pillar on a hillside, which is the starting point of the Tri-State Trail, a loop that guides you to the tri-state meeting point. While the rail trail offers a leisurely, flat walk through the forest, the Tri-State Trail is a more challenging hike, leading you up and down hills and across rocky terrain along the borders with Connecticut and Rhode Island. The segment that runs alongside the Rhode Island state line is especially demanding.
The tri-state marker, another stone pillar erected in 1883, provides a unique experience. As you circle it, you can determine which state you're in by observing the pillar's inscriptions; the state written on the closest side of the pillar is the one you're currently in.
The southern region of Douglas State Forest also boasts its primary visitor area adjacent to Wallum Lake. Here, visitors can find a nature center, restrooms, ample parking, a picnic area, a boat launch, and a beach open for summer swimming.
For those seeking a brief but delightful woodland stroll, especially during the local fall foliage peak, the area surrounding the nature center is ideal. The Bird Blind Trail and Cedar Swamp Trails, both under a mile long and highly popular, offer a quick escape into nature. The Bird Blind Trail, a quarter-mile path from Wallum Lake's edge, leads to a bird-watching blind where you can practice wildlife spotting and identification. (This activity can be enjoyed throughout the state forest; near the Connecticut border, we believe we heard the call of a red-bellied woodpecker.)
The nearby Cedar Swamp Trail, stretching 0.7 miles, takes you through an old granite quarry and a cedar swamp. Informative signs along the boardwalk elucidate the ecosystem's features. Interestingly, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation notes that the Cedar Swamp Trail attracts the most visitors out of all the forest's paths.
For those seeking a lengthier hike, the Coffeehouse Loop Trail extends for 2 miles, passing a former mill and the remnants of an old ice house. From this trail, you can access both the Southern New England Trunkline Trail and the Midstate Trail.
The Coffeehouse Loop Trail also provides the most straightforward route to the tri-state marker from the main parking lot. Heading west on this trail will lead you to the Midstate Trail, which then connects to the Tri-State Trail closer to the Rhode Island border.
When hiking in this area, ensure you wear shoes with excellent traction. As autumn progresses, be mindful of hunting season and wear blaze orange if necessary, as hunting is permitted in the Douglas State Forest.
Parking fees in the main lot vary: from May 24 to Oct. 13, it's $9 for Massachusetts plates and $30 for out-of-state plates. However, during colder months and at the various other trailheads along Douglas roads, parking is free.
And here's a fun fact: Did you know that this tri-state marker has been the subject of historical debates and boundary disputes? It's a fascinating reminder of the complex history of state boundaries. What do you think about these historical controversies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
