Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is allowed at Harold Parker State Forest, and riders share every marked trail with walkers and mountain bikers, who yield to horses. DCR's management plan names two places with room for trucks and horse trailers, the forest headquarters on Middleton Road and Berry Pond Road east of Jenkins Road, and describes loops from 5 to 20 miles along the forest's roads and trails.

Riding in the Forest

DCR lists horseback riding among Harold Parker's activities, and the forest's page links to DCR's statewide list of state parks with horseback riding trails. Its 2013 management plan explains why the forest matters to riders: four horse stables abut it, and many of the surrounding homes keep horses. The same plan says loops of different lengths, from 5 miles up to 20 along forest roads and trails, are important for conditioning horses and riders.

Where to Park a Trailer

DCR's plan names two spots with parking big enough for trucks and horse trailers:

• Forest headquarters, 305 Middleton Road, North Andover.
• Berry Pond Road, east of Jenkins Road, near the Jenkins Lot in Andover.

Daily parking fees ($5 for Massachusetts plates, $20 for others) apply May 23 through October 12; see parking.

Trails Riders Use

All marked trails are multi-use, according to the Friends of Harold Parker State Forest. The Friends specifically warn walkers on the Sudden Pond Trail to beware of horses near its start, between Gate 4 and NA4, close to the headquarters. DCR's plan describes riders using the forest roads and trails together. The technical Yellow Diamond Trail was built for mountain bikes, so expect fast bikes there. Lengths and routes are on trails and hiking and the trail map.

Trail Etiquette

• Riders have the right of way. The Friends ask every trail user to yield to equestrians.
• Hikers and bikers: stop, step to the side and speak so the horse knows you are a person.
• Dogs may be off-leash on Harold Parker's trails; call your dog to you and hold it when a horse comes by. See dogs.
• Stay on designated trails and keep groups to 12 or fewer, as DCR asks.
• DCR's plan quoted visitors praising the "harmonious atmosphere" among hikers, bikers, dog walkers and equestrians. Keep it that way.

Hunting Season

Fall hunting seasons overlap prime riding weather. Put blaze orange on yourself and your horse, and remember that MassWildlife allows no hunting on Sundays. DCR bars hunting within 500 feet of parking lots, picnic areas, campsites and service buildings; trails are not on that list. See hunting.

Water and Weather

The forest's 11 ponds and many streams sit beside the trails, but DCR warns that drinking water may not be available on site. Bring water for yourself; plan for your horse. DCR's project summary describes the forest as rolling hills, low-lying swampy areas and rocky outcrops, so expect wet ground in places.

Other Places to Ride Nearby

DCR's statewide horseback riding list includes Bradley Palmer State Park in Topsfield. Boxford State Forest, managed with Harold Parker, lists hiking, mountain biking and hunting; check DCR before you ride there. See Boxford State Forest.