Hike of the Month: Gifford Family Memorial Forest
Whether you’re a hiker, birder, angler, hunter or perhaps just a morning walker, Gifford Family Memorial Forest has something for you. Within it, you won’t encounter any heart-pumping climbs or jaw-dropping views. Instead, the one-mile loop trail in the 33-acre Gifford Family Memorial Forest invites you to slow down and admire the natural world’s quiet beauty.
Located less than five minutes from downtown Athol, this protected property features a short and relatively flat trail that leads you along the babbling West Branch of the Tully River and past a 200-foot-long historic stone dam. If you’re looking for a beautiful walk this weekend, look no further! Follow our blue blazes and hit the trail!
Trail Information for Gifford Family Memorial Forest
Trailhead: The entrance is located on the west side of Tully Road just north of Noel’s Nursery, 77 Tully Road, Orange.
Parking: Visitors can park on either side of the trail head – but cars shouldn’t block the fence. There is a cleared parking area 200 feet to the left of the trail entrance as well.
Trail Description: The first half of the trail follows an old cart road, before reaching the bank of the West Branch of Tully River. Blue blazes will guide you along this relatively easy and scenic walking loop. The section of trail along the river provides excellent fishing access. Two bridges are present along the way – both of which were made with the help of UMass volunteers and community members.
Hike Details:
- Distance: 0.9 miles
- Total Elevation Gain: 65 feet
- Type: Loop
Property History
Laura and George Gifford had brought their children, George, Laura, and Lissa, to a cabin by the river for summers since the 1960s. After her husband, George, passed away, Laura wanted to make sure the land remained unspoiled. In 2002, the Gifford family placed a conservation restriction held by the Department of Fish and Game on their 33-acre property during the 9,000-acre Tully Initiative. In 2012, as a tribute to George and Laura, the Gifford family chose to donate the land in full to Mount Grace.
“Tully Brook gave our family peace and delight; may it continue to do so for the community.” — Lissa Gifford