South Marker Parking

[Laura]

My partner is walking the midstate trail from North to South. Where is the closest place to park a car to pick him up at the south marker? The guide book made it seem like there wasn't a road near by, however the insert says:

On Southwest Main Street in Douglas, MA, almost at the Connecticut border, there is a gated road leading southeast and marked “19.” Hike down this road as it turns into a trail, ignoring side paths and roads. In less than half a mile you will intersect the Midstate Trail, and see the first of its yellow triangles. Heading southbound, it is less than a mile to Rhode Island and the start of the trail.

How do I find the gated road market 19? Any and all information would be helpful.

[Mary]

Google "intersection of High St and SW Main St, Douglas MA." Gate 19 of Douglas State Forest is directly across from High Street. There's plenty of parking along the road here.

Once you park, go around the gate and walk downhill. Cross the wooden bridge and then go straight across the Southern New England Trunkline Trail. Walk for a bit until you reach the intersection with the Midstate Trail, which goes left/straight and right. Go right. Follow the yellow blazes until you reach the granite marker denoting the beginning of the Midstate.