Welcome to Our Big Gulph Recreation Area

Here’s the place for challenging hiking in untamed woodlands. Big Gulph features more than six miles of trails, ranging from flat to very steep. You'll find a variety of wildlife habitats, including streams, meadows and forests. Stream fishing is available in sections of the Farm River and the Northford intake pond along the Farm River Trail.

Please stay within the boundaries of the recreation area and do not enter into the restricted areas at Big Gulph. Also note that many of the trails here are not loops. Be sure to check trail lengths and plan your route before you begin your hike.

Your safety and the safety of our drinking water are our primary concerns. Please abide by our rules and regulations and encourage others to do the same.

A Guide to the Trails at Big Gulph

Here is a brief description of the trails at Big Gulph.

Remember: Permit holders receive easy-to-read trail maps with detailed descriptions. As a permit holder, you can also enjoy the convenience of free parking and a system-wide trail guide as well as invitations to guided nature walks, our annual kids fishing derby and other special events which are only open to our permit holders.

Big Gulph Trail

(Red Triangle) 0.6 Miles

This short section of trail leads into the main trail system and provides access to the Farm River Trail for fishing. You will pass a Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) field, which is managed for wildlife species that prefer open, early successional habitats. There is a scenic view of the Farm River from a bridge on the trail.

Francis A. Merola Trail

(White Rectangle) 4.4 Miles Round Trip

Use the flat, linear part of this trail for walking, jogging or enjoying the fall foliage. The flat part of the trail is over 2 miles one-way. If you would like to add a challenge to your hike, you can make a loop by climbing any of the three steep, connecting paths up to the ridge and take advantage of the scenic outlooks. Watch for wild turkeys, which have successfully re-established themselves in the area.

Farm River Trail

(Green Triangle) 0.3 Miles

This trail provides good access to the Farm River stream fishing area. It ends at a pond, where you can find ducks and painted turtles.

Totoket Trail

(Red Circle) 0.7 Miles

This moderately difficult, steep connecting trail climbs the Totoket Ridge. The trail has a number of switchbacks that bring you through a variety of terrain. In the spring you will find ephemeral streams formed by the runoff from the Totoket Ridge. There are many spots along the trail that deer find favorable for bedding and browsing. There is plenty of evidence of deer browse – look for spots where the understory is exposed to plenty of sun, but where no new trees seem to be growing.

Vista Trail

(Green Circle) 0.6 Miles

This is another steep connecting trail that accesses the ridge where you will find vistas for more scenic views of the Farm River valley. This is the driest route to the south end of the ridge.

Stream Fishing at Big Gulph

Stream fishing is available at our Big Gulph Recreation Area.For more information, please call the Regional Water Authority Recreation Department at 203.401.2654.