Black Farm is a unique gem in Hopkinton RI. It encompasses the desires of the modern hiker or trail rider along with over 200 years of southern RI farm history. It is rich in natural splendor and the sounds of native wildlife.
Black Farm is approximately 245 acres of state land located on the east side of Woodville Alton Road. There is a parking lot directly off Woodville Alton that allows access to the trails that intertwine the acreage.
The land borders Sweet Valley Estates, an abandoned railroad trestle, 2 miles of Wood River, Woodville Alton Road and private property. It was set aside in 1995 as state land. Walking, hiking, trail riding, hunting and dog training are all permitted in this area.
It contains mixed forests of evergreens and hardwoods, oaks maples, white pine and pitch pine. It is home to various species of native animals including, otters, raccoons, and all kinds of waterfowl. The unique mix of fields, swamps and the river system makes for a diverse ecosystem.
Blue dragonflies dotting Plain Pond
The land includes a kettle pond, called Plain Pond. It is a shallow, naturally occurring kettle pond. It is a great place to bring the dog for a swim as the bottom is mostly sand, not mud. This is a convenience for those who want to take the dog for a walk but don’t want mucky puppies in the car.
The land is also interspersed with small streams that feed the swamps and eventually Wood River. There are small walking bridges over each stream enabling the hiker to keep their feet dry.
After visiting the pond walk along the abandoned railroad trestle to the pillars on Wood River. This is where the train crossed the river at one time. It is a great spot to stop, have a snack or view the river.
There is also a historic cemetery that includes members of each owner’s family dating back to 1755.
Most of the trails are old roads and trestles so they are fairly wide and easy to walk. There are a few hills, but nothing strenuous.
The parking area is fairly small, but will accommodate most horse trailers. The footing is mixed sand and hardwoods. The bridges are NOT horse safe. Expect to wade through the few streams. The trails are mainly used by hikers and have low hanging limbs. Around the pond the trails widen and are perfect for cantering. Along the river there is a cleared field and sandy trail that are great for working a horse while enjoying the view of Wood River.
Take the family, the dog or horse and treat yourself to a unique walk through Black Farm.
To find out more about the history behind Black Farm including its owners and historical importance read my next post on Friday April 19th.
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