Somerset Northside Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fishing · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Though this trail is listed open to summer and winter uses, it should probably only be used during the winter. You probably wouldn't be able to see the blazes through the Hobblebush.

This trail branches off West Loop Trail, at a sign that simply says Somerset. When the trail reaches Deerfield River, it arcs left and mostly follows the shoreline. After passing by a cove with some small islands, the trail leaves the shoreline and enters the woods. This spot can be tricky to find, since it isn't properly marked.

The trail cuts through the top of a small peninsula, through a stand of Birches. It crosses over a seep, where you'll (eventually) connect with some faded yellow blazes. Here, the trail follows a mix of yellow blazes, blue plastic diamonds, and pink flagging. This portion of the trail is so overgrown with Hobblebush and saplings, that you'll wish you'd brought a face shield.

At the northeast corner of the reservoir, you'll come to a small inlet, that you'll have to ford. This spot can be tricky (during the winter). If you've made it this far, you're almost to the end. Continue following the pink flagging, pushing through the Spruce branches, until you arrive at the Catamount Trail/ Somerset Eastside Trail.

Flora: White Birch, Leatherleaf, Red Spruce, Beech, Hobblebush.
Fungi: Artist's Conk, Chaga, Tinder Polypore, Birch Polypore.
Fauna: Canada Goose, Ruffed Grouse, Black-Capped Chickadee.