TRIP REPORT: The Grove, Marlborough MA

I read somewhere that The Grove, a conservation area in Marlborough is an unleashed area for dogs.  The town bylaws of Marlborough seem to say that dogs must be leashed at all times, but there were many people with their dogs off leash.  

This is a great place, especially if your dog knows how to swim.  People can't swim here (the Fort Meadow Reservoir) since the water is untested, but dogs can since sanitation is not currently on any dog agendas.

You go N up Route 85 (Bolton Street) from the town center for a couple of miles passing over the south part of the Reservoir and stop at the parking area on the right just over the edge of it. 

Walk along the lake for about about a half a mile to an excellent beach and field (see the Google Earth view above).

Teenagers have brought their blanket for a fun tryst. Unlike Willard's Woods, there is a trash barrel at the lake, about a half-mile from the entrance.  There is also a handy bench for the weary traveler.