Mustang Loop Trail at Middlesex Fells Reservation
The Mustang Loop is a short loop trail in the western Middlesex Fells. Most people start it from the Mustang Loop trailhead behind Medford High School, 489 Winthrop Street in Medford.
It's an official trail. DCR lists the Mustang Loop Trail with the trail loops west of Route 93 on its 2024 map. Friends of the Fells puts it at about 0.97 miles, so call it a one-mile loop.
Mustang Loop at a Glance
Where to Park and Start
Friends of the Fells lists its walks here as starting at the "Mustang Loop Trailhead, Medford High School," at 489 Winthrop Street. One of their volunteers describes parking at the back of the high school and starting on the loop from there.
This is a school lot, not a DCR lot. Follow any posted signs. For DCR's free lots, see our parking guide.
What's Out There
Friends of the Fells starts walks into Lawrence Woods from the Mustang Loop trailhead. DCR describes Lawrence Woods as an area southwest of South Border Road with many wide fire roads, views and vernal pools. Friends has led spring vernal pool walks from here.
Friends has also led short hikes from here to the 90mm Meadow, where you can see the remains of a Korean War era military base. Today the meadow is valued as pollinator habitat.
We haven't found a published blaze color or difficulty rating for the Mustang Loop. Bring the DCR map and follow it. Our trail map page explains how to read it, and our hiking guide lists every marked trail.
Good For / Maybe Skip If
Good for: a short loop from a Medford trailhead, a first look at Lawrence Woods, or a warm-up before the Cross Fells Trail. DCR says the Cross Fells (blue blazes, 4.7 miles) begins near Medford High School.
Maybe skip if: you want big views or a long day. The 7.6-mile Skyline Trail has views of Boston. If your dog needs to run off leash, go to the Sheepfold instead.
Linking to Longer Hikes
The Cross Fells Trail starts at Gate 1 on Winthrop Street, near Medford High School, and runs east across the whole reservation. That makes the Mustang Loop area a natural start for a longer one-way hike.
Trail Rules
- The reservation is open dawn to dusk.
- Dogs on a leash, with up to four dogs per person. Pick up and carry out all waste.
- Stay on official trails. DCR is closing the many user-made paths.
- Mountain biking is allowed on designated trails only. Check the DCR map before you ride. See mountain biking.
- Avoid the trails after heavy rain.
Mustang Loop FAQ
How long is the Mustang Loop Trail?
About one mile. Friends of the Fells puts it at about 0.97 miles. DCR doesn't publish a length.
Where does the Mustang Loop start?
At the Mustang Loop trailhead behind Medford High School, 489 Winthrop Street, Medford.
Is the Mustang Loop an official trail?
Yes. DCR lists the Mustang Loop Trail among the trail loops west of Route 93 on its 2024 Middlesex Fells map.
Where do I park for the Mustang Loop?
Friends of the Fells volunteers park at the back of Medford High School. It's a school lot, so follow posted signs.
Can I bring my dog on the Mustang Loop?
Yes, on a leash, with up to four dogs per person.
Is the Mustang Loop near the Cross Fells Trail?
Yes. The Cross Fells Trail begins near Medford High School, at Gate 1 on Winthrop Street.
Along the Loop
Facts from the DCR page for Middlesex Fells Reservation.