A 35-acre ridge parcel connecting Hampden Memorial Park and Gerrish Park by a mile-long trail along the Wilbraham Mountain ridge. Lookout Point sits at the east end and the historic Goat Rock outcrop at the west end, the site's namesake since a goat became trapped there in the late 1700s.
What to expect
Trails
Goat Rock Ridge Trail, about 1 mile, moderate difficulty, unpaved natural surface
Dogs
No townwide leash law generally, but the Memorial Park trailhead into this trail posts 'Dogs must be leashed on trails' after 2025 complaints about unleashed dogs. Entering via Gerrish Park is not known to carry the same posted sign.
Accessibility
Unpaved, moderate hiking trail; not step-free or wheelchair accessible
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Managed by
Hampden Conservation Commission (trail maintained with Minnechaug Land Trust)
413-566-2151 ext. 110 · WebsiteCommon questions
Is Goat Rock Conservation Area open today?
Goat Rock Conservation Area is a public preserve in Hampden, MA. There is no live closure feed for preserves & forests; the town's site is the authority for temporary closures.
Where do I park at Goat Rock Conservation Area?
Free lot (free).
Can I bring my dog to Goat Rock Conservation Area?
No townwide leash law generally, but the Memorial Park trailhead into this trail posts 'Dogs must be leashed on trails' after 2025 complaints about unleashed dogs. Entering via Gerrish Park is not known to carry the same posted sign.
Is Goat Rock Conservation Area wheelchair accessible?
Unpaved, moderate hiking trail; not step-free or wheelchair accessible