Cross-Country Skiing

Yes, you can cross-country ski at Maudslay State Park: DCR lists cross-country skiing among the park's activities, and its trail map marks which trails are open to skiers. The park stays open sunrise to sunset all winter, and its trails run through the estate's rolling meadows and pine forests. Bring your own skis; DCR doesn't publish grooming or rentals for Maudslay, and the $5 / $20 parking fee still applies in winter.

Where to Ski

DCR's trail map uses two line styles that include skiing. Dotted lines are hiking and skiing trails. Hatched lines are hiking, skiing, bicycle and bridle trails. Both are open to skiers.

A simple loop: from the main lot on Curzon Mill Road, head out the Pasture Trail and around Mile Circle, the same start DCR recommends for riders. Trail names and junctions are on the map; DCR warns that some trails may not be well marked, which matters more when snow covers the blazes.

The Winter Closure

DCR's map closes one area to the public from November 1 to March 31: the Laurels on the north side of the park, between Laurel Walk, Cathedral Road and the Castle Hill Trail. That covers part of the Merrimack River Trail along the river. Ski elsewhere in the park through the winter, and follow any posted closure signs.

Snow Conditions

DCR does not publish a snow report, trail grooming schedule or ski conditions for Maudslay. Newburyport is on the coast, so check a current forecast before you go, and call the park office at (978) 465-7223 or check DCR's park page if you want to know about conditions or closures on the day.

Sharing the Trails in Winter

Walkers and leashed dogs use the same trails all winter. Hatched trails are also open to bikes and horses. DCR's rules ban motorized vehicles, so there are no snowmobiles in the park.

Winter Safety

• Watch the clock: the park closes at sunset, which is early in December and January.
• Dress in layers for temperature changes, as DCR advises for every visit.
• Bring water; DCR says drinking water may not be available on site.
• Carry the DCR trail map and tell someone your plan.
• Restrooms are at the main entrance, per DCR's map.

Good For / Maybe Skip If

• Good for touring skiers on the estate's trails and rolling meadows.
• Good for a short outing close to Newburyport when there's snow on the ground.
• Maybe skip if you want groomed, track-set trails or rentals: DCR publishes neither for Maudslay.
• Maybe skip on a thin-snow day; DCR publishes no grooming, so conditions are whatever the weather left. Walk the trails instead.