John F. Malley Trail

The John F. Malley Trail is part of the Westborough Charm Bracelet System, a 28-mile trail system in Westborough, Massachusetts that connects several towns trails. The John F. Malley Trail extends around the southern border of Mill Pond, also known as Stump Pond because of the stumps that were left when the reservoir was created. The pond was formed in the 1960s for flood control, and now it is mostly used by those living nearby for fishing and dog walking. The trail has the pond on one side, and houses are visible a short distance on the other side. The area is not well known even among those living in the surrounding towns, which makes it a peaceful, low-traffic area. During warmer months numerous swans, geese and wildflowers can be seen.

The accessibility of this trail is a highlight because it is only a few minutes off of Route 9, allowing many locals easy access to this tranquill place. It is spectacular to have a clear view over the lake in contrast to the dense surrounding town. The beauty of the pond can be seen at the entrance, and continuing on allows for a full immersion into the wooded trail. There are six parking areas for Mill Pond: two on Fisher Road, two at Mill Rd or Gibbons School, and two at Andrew Street or Mill Pond School. From the parking on Mill Road the trail goes left to John F. Malley Trail or right onto the north side of the pond.

To get to the John F Malley Trail from the parking area, go to the left of the boat ramp behind the trail map. There will be a wooden sign that says John F. Malley along with a Westborough Charm Bracelet trail arrow. Stay to the right of the pump house and continue to follow the trail markers. The trail starts out narrow and on wooden planks; don’t let this deter you, it gets much better. The first vista is five minutes down the trail at the open field, which is Veterans Freedom Park. Stay close to the shoreline to remain on the trail. Continue on another five minutes to a beautiful point that is a nice place for a picnic or to let your dog swim; if it is cold and snowy, just enjoy the great views. The following section is windy and has some ups and downs until you reach Andrews Street, which is used to access the pump house at the point. Andrews Street is a brisk 25 minutes from the trailhead. Turn right onto Andrews Street, and before you reach the pumphouse turn left onto the trail. This section is filled with evergreens, which is a much appreciated change of scenery in the winter months. Another 10 minutes on the trail takes you to Osprey Point. Take in the beautiful view or try to see your car across the lake. This is the turnaround point for this walk, but there are trails that continue to Mill Pond School.