Maudslay State Park

Maudslay State Park has always been one of my favorite places to go walking with my family. The breathtaking river views, gorgeous gardens and plantings are probably my favorites. The kids would not agree. They always liked exploring the old estate and fantasizing that they lived there. Each time we would go they would find something they hadn't noticed before. They enjoyed walking through the garden mazes, hiding under the limbs of the enormous trees, checking out the now empty in-ground pool, reading the names off the pet tombstones, and imagining what the houses looked like and how large they must have been. It has always been the perfect place for an after dinner walk or a weekend stroll.
Maudslay State Park is the former family estate of Frederick Moseley. The Department of Conservation and Recreation says that the property used to boast a 72 room home which was demolished in 1955. There were also multiple other buildings on the property most likely for staff, storage, gardening and pets. Another home belonging to the Moseley family was built on the site some time later between 1939 and 1941 , but was destroyed by a fire in 1978. When walking the grounds you can still see some of the remaining structures and pieces of the foundations.

This beautiful park is located on Curzon Mill Road in Newburyport, Mass. along the banks of the Merrimack River . There is a $2.00 parking fee per visit, but I believe annual passes are also available. Restrooms are clean and open for the public and are located in the parking lot. This area is the site of many local events and can also be reserved for private function such as weddings and large group events.

Maudslay is not only a marvelous place to walk. There are many other things to do there as well. There are bike paths, horseback riding trails, picnic areas, cross-country ski trails, trails more suited to hiking and jogging or a fantastic place to relax and enjoy the scenic views. The DCR website even offers down loadable trail maps.

Various events are ongoing throughout the year. The "Theater in th Open" attracts many visitors. The theater's website says that it has been part of the community for 30 years. It offers summer work shops for children ages 6 to16 and has several annual events. Maudslay is Haunted is one of those family events. There is a $5.00 admission and children under 3 are free. Visitors can follow marked trails throughout the park for a fun and spooky experience. The theater company along with volunteers create skits and performances to enhance the Halloween fun.

You can check out other events and get more information about what's going on at Maudslay at www.sandyberkenbush.com/maudslay. Whether you're an athlete, an avid walker, a stargazer or just trying enjoy a sunny day. Maudslay is for you.

Sources:
mass,gov/dcr/parks/northeast/maud.htm
theaterintheopen.org
sandy berkenbush
sandyberkenbush.com/maudslay