A large, remote interior forest reserve along the Millers River, built up since the 1970s as 14 separate protected parcels under the Athol Conservation Commission. Reported acreage varies by source between about 950 and 1,568 acres; trails range from easy gravel roads to a strenuous climb up Round Top, Athol's second-highest hill, with panoramic views from Warren's Vista.
What to expect
Trails
About 10 miles of trails across the parcels, from easy gravel roads to a strenuous climb to Round Top (1,278 feet) and Warren's Vista; other trails reach…
Dogs
A dog in any public place in Athol must be effectively restrained by a chain or leash strong enough to hold it, or be under the handler's immediate and effective voice control. Posted signs at the site take precedence.
Hours
Athol conservation lands are open for passive recreation from dawn to dusk daily, and after-hours use is by permit only. That's the town default unless posted otherwise.
Fishing
Allowed Millers River frontage includes a special catch-and-release section
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round; listed as a regional birding hotspot
Kayak/Canoe/Sup
Allowed the Millers River through Bearsden opened to 6.6 additional miles of paddling from Royalston to Athol following the 2025 Crescent Street launch project
Managed by
Athol Conservation Commission
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On site
Paige Cabin and Shelter
Reservable shelter/cabin within the conservation area
Info kiosk
Trailhead kiosks with maps at main access points
Common questions
Are there trails, how long or hard are they?
About 10 miles across the property, ranging from flat gravel fire roads to a steep push up Round Top and Warren's Vista for valley views.
Hunting is permitted under state and local rules, but hunting between dusk and dawn requires written Conservation Commission permission.
There is a marked lot at the main entrance; a second access point with parking is off South Royalston Road near the Newton Reservoir gate.
Is there an entry fee at Bearsden Conservation Area?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Bearsden Conservation Area?
A dog in any public place in Athol must be effectively restrained by a chain or leash strong enough to hold it, or be under the handler's immediate and effective voice control. Posted signs at the site take precedence.
What rules should I know at Bearsden Conservation Area?
Trails include a strenuous climb to Round Top and rugged, hilly terrain away from the gravel roads. No open fires on conservation lands (subject to a $200 fine). No target shooting with firearms (subject to a $50 fine).