Trail Use Guidelines
Sharing our trails respectfully ensures everyone can enjoy Sherborn's natural spaces safely and harmoniously

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Share the Trail

Multiple user groups enjoy our trails. Be courteous, communicate clearly, and make space for others to pass safely.

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Stay on Designated Trails

Prevent erosion and protect sensitive habitats by staying on marked trails. Avoid shortcuts and trampling vegetation.

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Leave No Trace

Pack out everything you bring in. Leave natural objects and features undisturbed for others to discover and enjoy.

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Respect Quiet Enjoyment

Our trails are sanctuaries for quiet appreciation of nature. Keep noise levels low and avoid using amplified sound.

Permitted Activities

WHAT YOU CAN DO ON SHERBORN TRAILS

Unless otherwise posted at specific trailheads, the following activities are welcomed on Sherborn's trail network:

• Walking & Hiking – All trails are open to pedestrians

• Running & Jogging – Trail runners are welcome, but yield to hikers on narrow sections

• Birding & Wildlife Observation – Quiet observation encouraged

• Horseback Riding – Equestrian use permitted on most trails

• Mountain Biking – Allowed on trails unless specifically restricted

• Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing – Winter trail use encouraged

• Dog Walking – With specific guidelines (see below)

Important: Always check signage at trailheads for property-specific restrictions or seasonal closures.

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Mountain Biking

CYCLING SAFELY ON SHERBORN TRAILS

Designated Mountain Bike Trails

Sherborn has dedicated mountain biking trails located in the Town Forest on Pine Hill and Brush Hill. These trails are clearly marked and purpose-built for mountain biking, but remain open to all trail users.

General Trail Access

Mountain bikes are permitted on most trails throughout Sherborn unless otherwise posted. However, cyclists must:

• Yield right-of-way to pedestrians and horses

• Ride at speeds appropriate for conditions and visibility

• Stay in control at all times

• Announce presence when approaching others from behind

• Avoid skidding and creating trail erosion

Trail Conditions

Avoid riding on muddy or wet trails, which causes ruts and erosion damage. If the trail is leaving ruts from your tires, it's too wet to ride.

No motorized vehicles are permitted on any Sherborn trails, including:

• ATVs and dirt bikes

• Electric bikes (e-bikes) on trails where prohibited

• Motorized scooters

• Snowmobiles

Exception: Emergency vehicles and authorized maintenance vehicles only.

Hunting

Hunting is strictly regulated in Sherborn and is:

• Allowed ONLY on property managed by The Trustees of Reservations or TFC

• Permitted ONLY during specific seasons and times

• Requires advance written permission from the managing organization

• Never allowed on Town conservation land without specific authorization

If you plan to hike during hunting season, wear bright orange and stay on well-marked trails.

Many of Sherborn's trails pass through or near private property. Property owners have graciously allowed trail access, and we must respect their generosity:

Guidelines for Private Property

• If land is posted "No Trespassing" – Do not enter under any circumstances

• If land is marked "Private Property" but not posted – You may use marked trails only; do not wander off-trail

• If you're unsure – Stay on clearly marked public trails

• Never enter yards, gardens, or obviously private areas

• Do not allow dogs to enter private property

• Report vandalism or issues on private property to SFTA

Access Can Be Revoked

Trail access through private property is a privilege, not a right. Help us maintain these relationships by being a responsible trail user.

Sherborn's Article II 120-5 states - "No dog shall be allowed in any public place or street within the Town unless it is effectively restrained or unless it is confined within a motor vehicle. A dog is under restraint for purposes of this bylaw if it is accompanied by its owner or other person responsible for the dog, who is in full control, and such dog is securely restrained with a collar and leash or such dog is under immediate and effective voice control. For purposes of this bylaw, the dog must be within the keeper's sight and the keeper must be carrying a leash, whether the dog is securely restrained or under effective voice control." 

 

Clean Up Requirements

Dog owners are required to clean up after their dogs. This is not optional.

• Always carry waste bags when walking your dog

• Pick up all waste immediately

• Do NOT leave bagged poop on the trail (even if you plan to pick it up "on the way back")

• If you must dispose of waste on the trail, move it at least 200 feet away from the trail and bury it 6-8 inches deep

• Best practice: Carry it out and dispose of it at home

Trail Courtesy for Dog Walkers

• Keep your dog close when approaching horses (leash if necessary)

• Don't allow your dog to approach other people or dogs without permission

• Keep dogs on trail; don't let them chase wildlife or disturb habitats

• If your dog is reactive or aggressive, keep them leashed at all times