Franklin State Forest

Franklin State Forest is a small, wooded state forest in southeastern Massachusetts with a single designated loop for off-highway motorcycles. It is easy, mostly flat singletrack with the usual roots, rocks, and some mud, and a few water crossings. Riders describe it as a good spot for kids and beginners, and as a short ride: about 30 minutes to an hour for the main loop, so it suits a quick session more than a full-day trip. One state-run source rates the trails for intermediate to expert riders, which conflicts with rider descriptions (see notes below). A rider report also mentions one large rock step-off that can be jumped or bypassed.

Only motorcycles are allowed. ATVs, quads, side-by-sides, and full-size vehicles are prohibited, and you must stay on the yellow-blazed trails. Franklin is one of three nearby state forests (with F. Gilbert Hills and Wrentham) that each offer roughly 8 miles of motorcycle singletrack under the same rules.

Getting there

The forest is on Forge Hill Road in Franklin, in the Unionville area, about an hour southwest of Boston. State listings give the address as 80 Forge Hill Road, with parking behind the Hockomock Area YMCA at that address or in a newer lot off Grove Street. An older rider description instead mentions curbside parking near a water tower and radio tower, and says space is very limited, so arrive early on busy weekends and follow current posted signs. The forest is managed from the F. Gilbert Hills State Forest office in Foxborough, phone (508) 543-9084.

Fees, permits, and rules

The sources list no entry or parking fee, but the motorcycle must carry a valid Massachusetts off-highway vehicle registration. Massachusetts does not honor other states' OHV stickers, so out-of-state riders need to register here through the Massachusetts Environmental Police. Riders under 18 must complete the state's operator safety course, and a helmet is required. A spark arrestor and a 96 dB sound limit apply. Camping and campfires are prohibited, alcohol is prohibited, and riding is dawn to dusk only.

When to ride

The motorcycle trail is open from May 1 through the last Sunday in November. Outside that window the trail is closed to motorcycles. Check the state's OHV page or call the forest office before a long drive, since trail closures for wet conditions or maintenance can happen.