Read the suggestions for safe hiking, below. Then select a trail from the list, at right, and enjoy!
Trail Etiquette
- Obey signs and stay on trails.
- Do not hike or ride when heavy rains or spring thaws have made the ground soft.
- Carry out what you carry in, including cigarette butts. Our woods are clean, but if you carry a plastic bag, you can help us by removing the occasional trash.
- Do not remove plants. Take only pictures and memories.
- If the trail skirts private homes, show consideration by speaking quietly and not entering private property.
- Keep pets leashed and under control.
- If approached by a horse, stand still by the side of the trail.
- Dogs, horses, mountain bikes and in one instance, cross country skis, are not allowed on certain trails. Such info will be noted in each trail description.
- If the trail is on a road, walk single file and face the traffic.
- The Ipswich trail crosses Route 1, a very busy highway, at West Street.
- Proceed with great caution.
Lyme Disease
Hikers should be aware that “deer ticks” are prevalent in the woods. 
If you stay on the trails there is less chance of picking one up than if you “bushwack” but it is wise to check yourself for ticks after each hike. The tick is very tiny; if you find one and remove it within 24 hours, you should have no problems. Not all ticks carry Lyme Disease, but should you have a question or be bitten, please contact your physician.
Landowners and Trailowners Legal Rights and Immunities
1. If you permit your trails to be used for recreational purposes without imposing a charge or fee, you can't be sued if someone hurts himself on your trails unless you are guilty of wanton or reckless conduct. See Chapter 21, Section 17C, Page 393, General Law of Massachusetts
2. If you allow others to use your property, you don't lose title to it unless this use goes on and on, without a break, for twenty years. See Chaper 187, paragraph #2, General Law of Massachusetts.
3. If you consent to the use of your property by others, you do not diminish your control over your property. This is a permissive right that can be revoked at pleasure. Chapter 17, paragraph 713, General Law of Massachusetts.
Rules and Regulations Concerning Hunting in Ipswich
Ipswich is open to hunters in season in Willowdale State Park west of Route 1 and to residents on town owned lands located behind the electric plant and in the vicinity of the Town Farm. Hunting on private land is by written permission of the landowner.
Persons hiking through the woods in Ipswich from the beginning of November through to the end of December should be aware that hunters may also be there and understand that there are three deer seasons: bow and arrow, shotgun, and historic firearm.
Deer hunters using shotguns must wear orange and so can be readily seen.
You may choose to go into the woods during hunting season, but be sure to identify yourself and your pets by wearing hunter orange. Keep your pet on a leash and stay on the trails.
No hunting is allowed on Sundays
For more specific information, call the Mass. Environmental Police at 1-800-632-8075 or 617-727-6398, or the Ipswich Police Department at 978-356-4343.
