TRAILS FOR EVERYONE IN HAMPSHIRE COUNTY, … · the trail hugs the hillside with the pond more visible below. Turning away from the pond, the trail slowly sweeps right and up to join

TRAILS FOR EVERYONEIN HAMPSHIRE COUNTY, MASSACHUSETTS

DESIGNED BY

v.1–Nov 2018

Go for a Walk or Jog

Watch Wildlife

Take Photographs

Play in the Stream

Admire Farmland

Find YourselfCross a Bridge Gather in a Circle

Celebrate Art on the Land

Take in the View

Ski & Snowshoe Spy Butterflies and Insects

Sit a SpellBuild CairnsWelcome Home Kestrels

Bring Your Dog Visit Wetlands Identify Tracks Sniff Wildflowers

Share a Picnic

WHAT YOU CAN DO HERE

NORTHAMPTON, MASSB R OA D B R O O K — F I T ZG E R A L D L A K EM I N E R A L H I L LSSAW M I L L H I L LS — R O B E RTS H I L L

HADLEY, MASSH A M P S H I R E C O L L EG EDY E RS I LV I O C O N T E

AMHERST, MASSE AST M A N B R O O KL AW R E N C E SWA M PM T. P O L LU XP O D I C K & KAT H E R I N E C O L EP U F F E R ’ S P O N D & M I L L R I V E RSW E E T A L I C EW E N T WO RT H FA R MA M E T H YST B R O O K

PELHAM, MASSP E M B E RTO N & B U T T E R H I L LW E L L AWAY FA R M & H A R K N ESS

BELCHERTOWN, MASSH O L L A N D G L E NJA B I S H B R O O KS CA R B O R O U G H B R O O KM E A D ’ S C O R N E R

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

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ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

ORPE

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WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD

RUSSELL WESTSPRING-FIELD SPRINGFIELD

PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

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BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

NORTHAMPTON

HATFIELDWILLIAMS-BURG

LOCATOR

0 500 FT

B R OA D B R O O K – F I T ZG E R A L D L A K E G R E E N WAYNORTHAMPTON, MASS

DISTANCE: 2 .7 MILES

BROAD BROOK - FITZGERALD LAKE GREENWAY

City of Northampton

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

Split rock

Blue blaze

Red blaze

Parking

Boardwalk Watch birds

Bridge

Bench

Take in the view

NORTH FARMS RD.

NORTH

Other TrailsSuggested Route Streams & rivers

Here you will find one of the most ecologically rich areas of Northampton, consisting of nearly 300 acres of rocky woodlands, extensive wetlands, and abandoned fields. Drawing people and wildlife alike to its prominent feature —the lake—this public space includes an accessible paved path, wooden bridge, and boardwalk, that leads through a marsh to a canoe launch. PARTNERS MAKE

CONSERVATION POSSIBLE

Kestrel Land Trust partners with the City and friends groups to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the City and portions are monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. Broad Brook Coalition maintains the trails and habitat. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Broad Brook Coalition [email protected]

City of NorthamptonOffice of Planning and Sustainability:[email protected]

www.kestreltrust.org

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Boardwalk with canoe launch• Earthen dam with a sunset view

A TRAIL FOR EVERYONE AT

B R OA D B R O O K – F I T ZG E R A L D L A K E G R E E N WAYNORTHAMPTON, MASS

SUGGESTED ROUTE

Enter the woods on the accessible trail, noticing the bench where you can sit on your return to ponder the wonders of this natural space. Soon you take a right onto a boardwalk that passes through marshland and juts into the lake. Take in the view, launch a canoe, or watch birds from the boardwalk’s dock. A bench here also provides a peaceful place to sit. Returning to the trail, go right over the bridge. Bear right and follow a short loop trail to the water’s edge and back to the main trail. At the intersection follow the blue-blazed trail to the right (a red-blazed trail leads left). Then turn right on a trail that brings you to the lakeside. Look for ducks, otter, and beaver. Return to the main trail and turn right. As you pass through a rocky outcropping, notice the split rock. Continuing through the wooded terrain, bear right at a sharp intersection and follow the lakeside trail to the earthen dam. A footpath across the top of the dam’s short embankment provides an open view westward across the lake. Retrace your steps back to the intersection and follow the upper loop, a red-blazed hillside trail, that meanders up and down through the woods. At the intersection, turn right and retrace your steps to the bridge and bench you passed on the way in.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Open dawn to dusk, year round• Please keep dogs on leash and

pick up after your pet• Respect adjacent private

property by staying on the trail

DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 95 North Farms Rd., Northampton, MA

• Parking is available in a small lot with a kiosk on North Farms Road


Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife XC Ski / SnowshoeTake in the ViewTake Photographs

v.1–Nov 2018

MINERAL HILLS CONSERVATION AREA

City of Northampton

Rock with a view

Rock wall

Boardwalks

Barbed wire/maple tree

Large birch tree

Parking

Quarry lookout

Quarry edge

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

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WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

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PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

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HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

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SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

EAST

- HA

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ON

NORTHAMPTON

WES

THAM

PTON

SOUTHAMPTON

LOCATOR

0 500 FT

M I N E R A L H I L LS C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ANORTHAMPTON, MASS

DISTANCE: 2 MILES

Other trails

Suggested route

PRIVATE CONSERVATION LAND

PRIVATE LAND

T URKEY HILL RD.

NORTH

Streams & rivers

Fifteen minutes from downtown Northampton exists a special place that seems a world apart from the nearby bustling cultural center. The Mineral Hills is a hilly forest with dramatic ridge-top views, wetlands, beaver ponds, and an abandoned rock quarry.

PARTNERS MAKE CONSERVATION POSSIBLE

Kestrel Land Trust partners with the City and friends groups to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the City and portions are monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. Friends of Mineral Hills maintains the trails. For more information contact Kestrel or:


Friends of Mineral Hills [email protected]


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Abandoned rock quarry with view of Mount Holyoke


M I N E R A L H I L LS C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ANORTHAMPTON, MASS

SUGGESTED ROUTE

There is an extensive trail system here marked by signs and numbered intersection thanks to the Friends of the Mineral Hills. To begin, go a short distance on the entrance path to the first intersection (#111), and turn right onto Big Meadow Trail. At the next intersection (#114), keep right and pass by a meadow on the right. At the next intersection (#107) take a sharp right onto Kohl Trail. Note the large old maple tree on the right with bark growing around rusty barbed wire, a sign of historic pasturing. Pass by rock outcroppings on the right, and cross a series of boardwalks. At the next intersection (#108), go left at The Chute. At the top of the hill, take a breather at a large round rock with a view a bit beyond the trail junction (#104). Returning to intersection #104, proceed on Ravine Trail. At intersection (#105) go left on Creek Bed Trail. Look for a large black birch on the left as you make your way downhill (before the trail bends left with the creek on your right). Follow the blue-blazed trail over the narrow creek as you continue gently descending. At intersection (#106), go right “To Old Quarry” and then right again at intersection (#113) onto Quarry Loop Trail. Soon a side trail on your left leads to an opening overlooking the rock quarry. From here, on a clear day, you can see the Mount Holyoke summit house. Return to the trail and follow it left along the quarry rim It soon opens up and you can stand on the quarry edge looking down where water now pools. Bear right away from the quarry, go through the intersection, continue following the blue blazes, and bear right until you come to intersection #111 (where you began).


Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife XC Ski / SnowshoeTake in the View

YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Open dawn to dusk, year round

• Please keep dogs on leash and pick up after your pet

• Respect adjacent private property by staying on the trail

DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 398 Turkey Hill Rd., Northampton, MA 01062

• Parking is available at the end of Turkey Hill Road marked by a Mineral Hills Conservation Area sign

v.1–Nov 2018

SAW MILL HILLS CONSERVATION AREA

City of Northampton

Parking

Roberts Hill lookout

Hemlock grove

PO

WE

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E C

OR

RID

OR

Mossy rock lookout

Old foundation

Rock outcropping

NEW S

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MONTAGUE WENDELL

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WORTHINGTON

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PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

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SHELBURNEGREEN-

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PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

NORTHAMPTON

HATFIELD

WILLIAMSBURG

WES

THAM

PTON

LOCATOR

0 500 FT

SAW M I L L H I L LS C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E A

— R O B E RTS H I L LNORTHAMPTON, MASS

DISTANCE: 2 MILES

Other trailsSuggested route

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LANDW

AT

ER

ST.

RESERVOIR R

D.

Blue blaze

Blue blaze

Red blaze

Orange blaze

Yellow blaze

Green blaze

Orange blaze

Green blaze

NORTH

Streams & rivers

The Roberts Hill section of Saw Mill Hills has a large network of trails used by hikers and mountain bikers alike. This northern most parcel of Roberts Hill has a multi-colored trail network. A highlight here is a westward-facing view from the open hilltop where the blue- and red-blazed trails meet.



SAW M I L L H I L LS C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E A — R O B E RTS H I L LNORTHAMPTON, MASS

SUGGESTED ROUTE

Begin this 2-mile clockwise loop walk by going slightly uphill on the old woods road, which has historic significance—it was a stagecoach route to Albany in the early 1800s. Continue straight onto the orange-blazed trail, which soon overlaps with the blue-blazed trail. Following the orange blazes, the trail takes a sharp right turn leading away from neighboring private property. Bear left at the intersection with a rock outcropping on the right. After passing an old foundation on the right, the trail veers left and downhill, where it crosses the green-blazed trail. This gently inclining stretch of the orange-blazed trail is a former power line path where pole stumps can be seen in the shrubbery. For a long stretch, the trail passes through stands of young trees. Roberts Meadow Pond begins to come into view below (especially during the fall and winter months). A mossy rock to the right of a hemlock tree provides a look out point. Continue on this section of trail through new growth forest until you reach a rock-strewn intersection where the red-blazed trail comes in. Follow orange-red blazes for a short distance until the orange trail dips sharply to the left. Now, on the red-blazed trail, a gentle ascent begins. Pass a rock wall on the right as the trail hugs the hillside with the pond more visible below. Turning away from the pond, the trail slowly sweeps right and up to join the blue-blazed trail. Go right and follow the blue blazes noting the shrubby understory. The trail gets a bit steeper until you reach the top of Roberts Hill where a rocky lookout provides impressive views to the west. Return to the blue-blazed trail, which begins to descend. Look for numerous oak species, including chestnut, red, white, black, and scarlet. Pass through a peaceful hemlock grove, then turn left at the intersection with the green-blazed trail. Stay to the left, following the green blazes. The Mill River is ahead and below as you turn left and return to the orange blazed trail back to the trailhead.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with the City and friends groups to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the City, and portions are monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. The Leeds Civic Association and the Friends of Saw Mill Hills help maintain the trail. For more information contact Kestrel or:


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Numerous varieties of oak trees


Walk/Jog Watch WildlifeTake in the View XC Ski / Snowshoe

YOU SHOULD KNOW




DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 199 Old Shepherd Rd., Leeds, MA 01053

• Parking is available for several cars at the dead-end of Old Shepard Road (an extension of Water Street)

v.1–Nov 2018

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

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WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

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BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

AMHERSTHA

DLEY

SOUT

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GRANBY

N’TON

LOCATOR

MOUNT HOLYOKE RANGE STATE PARK

PRIVATE CONSERVATION LANDHampshire College

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

H A M P S H I R E C O L L EG EC O N S E RVAT I O N L A N DHADLEY, MASS

DISTANCE: 1 MILE

Rock out-cropping

Wooden footbridge

Edgeof two habitats

Double-trunked white pine

Opening next to a small pool

Field

Stand of young birches

Cul-de-sac parking area

0 500 FT

Suggested Route

Other Trails

C H M U R A R D .

NORTH

Streams & rivers

Nestled at the base of the Mount Holyoke Range, this 46-acre protected forest is owned by Hampshire College and the trails are open for the public to enjoy.

SUGGESTED ROUTE

Begin this 1-mile loop walk at the northeast end (upper left corner) of the cul-de-sac parking area where the trail leads into the woods. The old woods road follows a flat terrain. (Faded yellow blazes can occasionally be detected on trees and rocks on the trail.) Proceed forward at the intersection where “college trail” leads uphill and to the right (indicated by a small sign on a tree); on the left is a “Mt. Holyoke Range Location #143” sign posted on a tree. Continuing on the woods road,. bear right at the fork. Soon the trail tapers to a footpath and goes uphill where a double-trunked white pine stands on the right. The trail declines gently and crosses a small creek. Go straight and soon come to an intersection where a “Mt. Holyoke Range Location #144” sign is posted. Before taking a sharp right, pause to view the opening ahead where a side trail leads to picnic tables by a small pool of water. As you take the sharp right turn and go up a short hill, the woods open up into a field. Notice the sumac stand and a wooded hill in the distance. Follow the footpath across the field. Before re-entering the woods you will see a young birch stand; pause at the edge of these two habitats. Proceed uphill, and go right at the T-intersection. Ahead you come to the creek; cross over it on a small wooden footbridge. Follow the meandering trail through the woods, and take a break to sit at a rough rock outcropping. Bear right where a side trail goes up to the left. You will pass several ecological restoration signs before returning to the woods road where you began. Bear left and before long you are back at the parking area.


DIRECTIONS

• GPS Address: 100 Chmura Rd., Hadley, MA 01035

• Parking is available in the cul-de-sac at the dead end of Chmura Road located 1 mile off Route 47

YOU SHOULD KNOW





Kestrel Land Trust partners with landowners to create, conserve, and care for lands with public access to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by Hampshire College and permanently conserved with a Conservation Restriction monitored by Kestrel. For more information, contact Kestrel or:

Hampshire College: 413-559-6100


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Signs of early successional habitats


H A M P S H I R E C O L L EG E C O N S E RVAT I O N L A N DHADLEY, MASS

Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife XC Ski / Snowshoe Take Photographs

v.1–Nov 2018

DY E R C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AHADLEY, MASS

DISTANCE: 1.4 MILES ROUND TRIP

Road and trail to summit 600 ft.

Maple tree

Left at the sign

Play in the stream

Larch trees

Wooden bridge

Parking

NEW S

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MONTAGUE WENDELL

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ATHOL

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ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

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WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

AMHERST

HADLEY

N’TON

HATFIELD

LOCATOR

0 500 FT

Suggested route

KESTREL LAND TRUST CONSERVATION LAND

PRIVATE PROTECTED FARMLAND



PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

TRUSTEES OF RESERVATIONS

PORTER PHELPS

HUNTINGTON MUSEUM

M T. WA R N E R R OA DR

IVER

DR

. (R

T. 4

7)

NORTH

Streams & rivers

This 35-acre property was once part of the Forty Acres Farm associated with the Porter Phelps Huntington family, who helped settle North Hadley and built their homestead in 1752. Nearby Mount Warner Reservation is a 156-acre forested area protected in the 1980s by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation with assistance from Kestrel Land Trust, and is now owned by The Trustees of Reservations. The .7-mile Dyer Trail goes through a mixture of field, forest, and wetland habitat, leading to Mount Warner Road and its trails.

SUGGESTED ROUTE

This 1.4-mile out-and-back walk begins on Route 47 (the Connecticut River Scenic Byway), opposite the Porter Phelps Huntington Museum. The trail runs along the right side of the field to the far right (east) corner. The trail goes right through a short shrubby wetland area where you pass a multi-trunked maple tree on the left and a “stay on the trail” sign. Turn left here, proceeding through a red maple swamp with a thin line of trees along the border of a field on your right. Continue into the woods, and soon you come to a stream where you can build a cairn, dip your feet, and look for animal tracks. The stream remains on your right as the trail follows a woody hillside on the left. Another “stay on the trail” sign is posted at a trail junction. Take the right fork, which soon veers to the left of the hill as the trail ascends. As you proceed, notice the hemlocks shading the opposite bank of the stream. Follow the trail to the right. It continues through a flat, brambly stretch. You cross a wooden bridge and soon come to a few larch trees (deciduous trees with needles that turn bright yellow then drop in autumn). Go slightly uphill and the trail ends at Mt. Warner Road where a sign indicates, “trail to summit 600 ft.” You can proceed on the road to Mt. Warner’s trail system, or turn around and retrace your steps .7 mile back to where you began on Route 47.


DIRECTIONS

• GPS Address: 123 River Dr., Hadley, MA 01035

• Parking is available on the east-side shoulder of Route 47 at the entrance to a field where a Kestrel Land Trust sign is posted. Pull off the road fully onto the grassy area next to the sign.

YOU SHOULD KNOW





Kestrel Land Trust partners with other organizations to create, conserve, and care for lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by Kestrel and Porter Phelps Huntington Museum with a Conservation Restriction monitored by The Nature Conservancy. For more information contact Kestrel or:

The Nature Conservancy: 413-584-2532

Porter Phelps Huntington Museum413-584-4699


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Hemlock grove along stream• Larch trees


DY E R C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AHADLEY, MASS

Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife Identify Tracks Play in the BrookBuild a Cairn

v.1–Nov 2018

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

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ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

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WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

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BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

AMHERST

HADL

EY

HATF

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N’TON

GRANBY

LOCATOR

0 500 FT PRIVATE PROTECTED FARMLANDPRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

USFWS CONTE REFUGE FORT RIVER DIVISION

USFWS CONTE REFUGE

Lookout

Lookout

Lookout

Lookout

Lookout

Gazebo

Parking & kiosk

BA

RN

Lookout

Lookout

Lookout

Lookout

M O O DY B R I D G E R D .

T H E S I LV I O O. C O N T E N AT I O N A L F I S H A N D W I L D L I F E R E F U G EHADLEY, MASS

DISTANCE: 1.1 MILES

Suggested Route

NORTH

Streams & rivers

Open Fields

The Fort River Birding and Nature Trail at the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge is a universally accessible 1.1-mile loop trail. Meandering through 260 acres of diverse habitat—grassland, floodplain, upland forest, wetlands, and intermittent streams—it was recognized as the best trail under 3 miles in Massachusetts. The trail is constructed of stone dust with wooden edging, and includes eight elevated boardwalks and seven scenic viewing decks with benches. A gazebo at the entrance provides a shaded rest before or after walking. Families with strollers, seniors, and those using wheelchairs or walkers also enjoy this trail.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with the US Fish and Wildlife Service to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands were acquired by Kestrel with The Conservation Fund and the Trust for Public Land for the Conte Refuge. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge413-548-8002


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Seven scenic lookouts with benches

• Kestrel nest boxes


T H E S I LV I O O. C O N T E N AT I O N A L F I S H A N D W I L D L I F E R E F U G E HADLEY, MASS


Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife

SUGGESTED ROUTE

Begin your walk on this flat and easy-to-navigate trail at the gazebo, within sight of the parking area. Beyond the gazebo, the trail soon splits. Stay to the left for a clockwise loop. Go slowly and observe as many habitats as you can along the way. The first lookout is on the right. Notice the young forest establishing here. At the next lookout you are perched at a bend in the river. Pause to watch the water flow by, and be watchful for wildlife. As you continue along, the next lookout is nestled under a large oak tree. Further along you come to three lookouts clustered close together, each overlooking a different type of habit – shrubland, wetland, and grassland. After the third, you enter an opening where the trail is lined with sumac, often found growing at the edge of newly establishing habitats. The trail crosses the field, re-enters the woods, and then comes to a lookout where wood duck nest boxes can be seen through the trees across the swamp. The next lookout is at the edge of a field where American kestrel nest boxes are located on the far side of this open space. At the final lookout, you’re standing above a stretch of wetland. Soon you complete the 1.1-mile loop and are back at the gazebo.

Sit a Spell Take Photographs Enjoy Vernal Pools

YOU SHOULD KNOW




DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 63 Moody Bridge Rd., Hadley, MA 10135

• Parking is available down the gravel road, keep right at the fork and the parking lot will be on the left. There is a kiosk that provides information about the refuge before continuing to the trail.

v.1–Nov 2018

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

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WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

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SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

AMHERST

SUND

ER-

LAND

HADL

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BELCHER-TOW

N

LEVERETT PELHAM

LOCATOR

Amherst/Leverett Town Line

KESTREL LAND TRUST

CONSERVATIONAREA

PRIVATE CONSERVED

LAND

EASTMAN BROOK CONSERVATION AREA

Town of Amherst

TOWN CONSERVATION LAND

PRIVATE CONSERVED LAND

0 500 FT

E AST M A N B R O O K C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS

DISTANCE: LESS THAN 2 MILES

Other TrailsSuggested Route

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

Bridge

Bridge

Take in the view

Butterflies

Sit a spellParking

AM

HER

ST RD

.LE

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RE

TT

RD

.

NORTH

East

man

Bro

ok

Rob

ert F

rost

Tra

il

Robert Frost Trail

Streams & rivers

Eastman Brook is home to breathtaking open fields perfect for bird watching and seeing butterflies flutter about. There are gorgeous wetlands and beaver dams as well as a rushing brook with accessible vantage points to view it along the trail. It is a wonderful place to stop by for a short walk after work, visit for a morning jog, or for an afternoon outing on the long-distance Robert Frost Trail.

SUGGESTED ROUTE

This brook-side hike is a little less than two miles long, including the short detour to visit butterflies on Kestrel Land Trust land which was donated by the Wood and Cousins families. From the parking area, follow the trail around the left side of the green fence, across two small gravel roads and along the edge of a field. There, you will find a nice place to sit to enjoy some sunshine and birdsong. This trail will then continue into the woods where you will find an intersection, take a right to enjoy butterflies, or a left to continue over the train tracks onto the Robert Frost Trail. Continue straight on the orange-blazed trail through a field perfect for viewing birds or tracks in the snow. When you approach the woods, stay straight and follow the red-blazed Ellsworth Barnard Trail along the Eastman Brook. Turn right and cross the bridge, to follow the trail through the entire loop. You will cross another bridge before completing the loop and returning to the parking area.

YOU SHOULD KNOW




DIRECTIONS

• GPS Address: 280 Leverett Rd., Amherst, MA 01002

• Parking is available on the west side of Leverett Road across from house #281


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and Kestrel. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of Amherst Department ofConservation:413-259-3045


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Beaver dams and wetland views


E AST M A N B R O O K C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS


Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife XC Ski / SnowshoeSpy Butterflies and Insects

Identify Tracks

v.1–Nov 2018

LAWRENCE SWAMPCONSERVATION AREA

Town of Amherst

SLOBODY FARM CONSERVATION AREATown of Amherst

Kiosk

Parking

Take in the view

Hemlock stand

Bridge

Identify tracks

NEW S

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MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

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WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

BELCHERTOWN

PELHAM

AMHE

RST

HADL

EY

GRANBY

LOCATOR

S TAT I O N R D .

Baby Car

riage

Bro

ok

Hop Brook

NORTH 0 500 FT

L AW R E N C E SWA M P C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS

DISTANCE: JUST OVER 1 MILE

Streams & rivers


Rob

ert F

rost

Tra

il

Jan Dizard Trail

NORWOTTUCK RAIL TRAIL

Lawrence Swamp contains extensive forests adjacent to the Norwottuck Rail Trail and protected farmland. The conservation land shown is a small portion of the hiking trail networks and bike paths that create easy access to beautiful and quiet walks in the Valley. Bring your family to hike along Baby Carriage Brook and weave through the changing landscape.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and acquired with assistance from Kestrel. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of AmherstDepartment of Conservation413-259-3045


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Lawrence Swamp has an extensive network of trails including the Robert Frost Trail and the Norwottuck Rail Trail

• Beautiful brook views


L AW R E N C E SWA M P C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS

SUGGESTED ROUTE

This clockwise loop is a little over a mile long with plenty of opportunities to explore other trail networks including the Robert Frost Trail and the Norwottuck Rail Trail. From the parking area, take a short walk west down the road before coming to an informational kiosk and trail head. Proceed into the woods and keep left to follow Jan Dizard Trail. Take a left at the beginning of the loop to follow the trail along Hop Brook. This is a great place to enjoy the sound of rushing water and look for wetland wildlife. Continue along the red-blazed trail and take a quick detour to the left to relax by Baby Carriage Brook on a small bridge. Return to the trail to walk through a Hemlock stand and follow the trail around the loop. Stay right to keep on the Jan Dizard Trail. Take a moment to identify tracks and take in the view one more time before completing the loop and returning to the parking area.


Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife XC Ski / Snowshoe

YOU SHOULD KNOW




DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 101 Station Rd., Amherst, MA 01002

• Parking is available west of a small bridge across Hop Brook on Station Road

Visit Wetlands Admire Farmland

v.1–Nov 2018

Summit

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

ERV-ING

ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

ORPE

RU

WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

BELCHERTOWN

PELHAM

AMHERST

HADL

EY

GRANBY

LOCATOR

0 500 FT

M T. P O L LU X C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS

DISTANCE: ONLY 500 FEET!

Other trails

Suggested route

SOU

TH EA

ST ST.

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

MID

DLE

ST.

Parking

MT. POLLUX CONSERVATION AREA

Town of Amherst

NORTH

Mt. Pollux Conservation Area provides the best view in the Valley for the shortest walk. It is a great place to enjoy 360-degree views of the Mt. Holyoke Range to the south, the Berkshires to the west, and Mt. Toby and Brushy Mt. to the north. Bring a picnic to enjoy the sunset! Or launch a kite on a windy day.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns and friends groups to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and Kestrel works with the Friends of Mount Pollux to enhance public access. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of AmherstDepartment of Conservation413-259-3045www.kestreltrust.org

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Awesome views of the Mt. Holyoke and Mt. Tom Ranges!


M T. P O L LU X C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS


SUGGESTED ROUTE

From the parking area, the walk is uphill through an apple orchard, but it only takes about 5 minutes. When you are at the peak enjoy the shade under the mature maple tree. This is a great place to bring toddlers for their first hike up a mountain!

Take PhotographsShare a PicnicCelebrate Art on the Land Take in the View

YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Open dawn to dusk, year round• Please keep dogs on leash and pick up

after your pet• Respect adjacent private property by

staying on the trail

DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 1413 S. East St., Amherst, MA 01002

• Parking is available, but a little hard to find. Look for a driveway and sign that says “Mt. Pollux Conservation Area” off Southeast Street in South Amherst, just after Mt. Pollux Drive

Spy Butterflies and Insects

v.1–Nov 2018

P O D I C KA N D KAT H E R I N E C O L EC O N S E RVAT I O NA R E ASAMHERST, MASS

DISTANCE: PODICK—1.7 MILES KATHERINE COLE—1.3 MILES

Bridge

Take in the view

Take in the view

Admire farmland

Bridge

Parking

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

ERV-ING

ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

ORPE

RU

WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

LEVERETT

AMHERST

HADL

EY

HATFIELD

SUNDER-

LAND

LOCATOR

KESTRELLAND

TRUSTLAND

0 500 FT

Suggested route

Hadley/A

mherst Tow

n Line

KATHERINE COLECONSERVATION AREA

Town of Amherst

PODICKCONSERVATION

AREATown of Amherst

CONSERVATION AREATown of Hadley

SU

ND

ERLA

ND

RD

. (RT. 1 16

)

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

Other trails

Streams & rivers

NORTH

Turn around

Each of these conservation areas contains easily accessed trail networks that provide short but secluded outings. Both are home to a variety of forest types, agricultural landscapes, and wetlands. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as white-tailed deer and barred owls.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and Kestrel. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of Amherst Department of Conservation 413-259-3045


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Nice view and resting point on the bridge on Katherine Cole Conservation Area

• Streamside views


P O D I C K A N D KAT H E R I N E C O L E C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ASAMHERST, MASS

Katherine Cole Conservation Area: Following the yellow blazes south from the parking area, the trail passes by wetlands and rises up into a young stand of pines. After a short walk, the trail crosses power lines and comes to a small bridge, then immediately splits. Take a left, following the edge of the conservation land, which is bordered by a stream. Continue through more wetlands and over a small bridge. The trail briefly enters a parcel owned by the Kestrel Land Trust with a view of the neighboring farmland. The trail loops back and rises into a Hemlock stand before returning to the bridge. Follow the yellow blazes back to the parking area.

Podick Conservation Area is home to the Noah Webster Trail. Originally a loop, part of the trail is now under water due to beaver activity. For a lovely out-and-back walk, head north from the parking area toward the end of the small clearing. Look carefully for the red blazes. Follow the trail to the left as it slopes down. Notice wetlands on the left before crossing a power line cut. After a small stream crossing, you come to a clearing where the Noah Webster Trail begins (look for a white sign on a large tree). Turn right into the woods, and follow the red blazes winding through pine and hemlock forests. A secluded farm field will be visible on the right. The trail then briefly runs alongside a large brook, then turns left through a beautiful patch of Mountain Laurel. Soon, the trail enters the wetland area and becomes boggy. Stop here, then turn around and follow the red blazes back the way you came.


Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife XC Ski / SnowshoeIdentify Tracks

YOU SHOULD KNOW

• The trails are very wet or flooded after a rainfall or snow melt


pick up after your pet• Respect adjacent private property

by staying on the trail

DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 390 Sunderland Rd., Amherst, MA 01002

• Parking is available at the gate after pulling off of Route 116 (across from Sunderland Road)

• Bus: 31 - Sunderland/ South Amherst: Waterfield Farms

v.1–Nov 2018

P U F F E R ’ S P O N D& M I L L R I V E R C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ASAMHERST, MASS

DISTANCE: 1.7 MILES

Bridge

Bridge

Take in the view

Boatlaunch

Swimmingarea

Swimmingarea

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

ERV-ING

ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

ORPE

RU

WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

LEVERETT

PELHAM

AMHERST

HADL

EYSUNDER

-LA

ND

LOCATOR

0 500 FT

LOWERMILL RIVER

CONSERVATIONAREA

Town of AmherstMILL RIVER

RECREATIONAREA

TOWN OF AMHERST

CONSERVATIONLAND

UPPER MILL RIVERCONSERVATION AREA

Town of Amherst

PUFFER’S POND

PUFFER’S PONDCONSERVATION

AREATown of Amherst

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

STATE ST.

SAND HILL RD.

MILL ST.

P U L P I T H I L L R D .

SUMMER ST.

STATE ST.

P I N E ST.


H.H. Jackson Trail

Juliu

s Les

ter T

rail

Jenn

ifer T

rail

Mill River

Cushman Brook

Robert Frost Trail

Streams & rivers

NORTH

These conservation lands are home to beautiful and practical trails that make it easy to navigate from Puffer’s Pond to the Mill River Recreation Area. This is a great place to spend an afternoon by the pond for a picnic, take a swim, and enjoy a walk in the woodlands.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns and friends groups to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and Kestrel is the fiscal sponsor for Friends of Puffer’s Pond. For more information about the conserved lands here, contact Kestrel or:

Town of Amherst Department of Conservation413-259-3045

Friends of Puffer’s Pond413-658-4240


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Puffer’s Pond Dam


P U F F E R ’ S P O N D & M I L L R I V E R C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ASAMHERST, MASS

SUGGESTED ROUTE

Walk east down State Street, past a swimming area on your left. Turn left down the Robert Frost Trail, in a few feet there is a pet waste station on your right. In a few hundred feet, there is an intersection of the Robert Frost Trail and H.H. Jackson trail, follow the H.H. Jackson trail to continue along the pond shore. The trail ends at a sandy area with steps into the pond; this is the second swimming area. Walk up the stairs away from the pond to Mill Street and take a left. Enjoy the sound of rushing water and the view of the dam. Then, take a right and follow the sign to the red-blazed Julius Lester Trail to the Lower Mill River Conservation Area. Then, follow the trail straight across the bridge to Mill River Recreation Area. Or follow the loop left to head back toward Puffer’s Pond. To return, take the Julius Lester Trail and take a right onto Mill Street, then, take a left to follow State Street back to the parking area.


Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife Share a Picnic Play in the WaterSit a Spell

YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Open dawn to dusk, year round• Swimming is allowed but no lifeguard is

on duty - swimming is at your own risk• Please keep dogs on leash and pick up

after your pet. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the pond.


DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 171 State St., Amherst, MA 01002

• Parking is available along State Street • Bus: 33 - Puffer’s Pond/ Shopper Shuttle:

East Pleasant Street / Pine Street

v.1–Nov 2018

Parking

Footbridge

Take in the view

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

ERV-ING

ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

ORPE

RU

WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICKPE

TERSH

AM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

GRANBY

BELCHERTOWN

AMHERSTHADLEY

SOUT

H HA

DLEY

LOCATOR

SW E E TA L I C EC O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS


Other trails

Suggested route

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND0 500 FT

MT. HOLYOKE RANGESTATE PARK

MT. HOLYOKE RANGESTATE PARK

CONSERVATION AREA

B AY R OA D

Watch birds

SWEET ALICE CONSERVATION AREA

Town of Amherst

Sweet A

lice Brook

NORTH

Streams & rivers

PO

WE

R L

INE

CO

RR

IDO

R

PO

WE

R L

INE

CO

RR

IDO

R

EPSTEIN POND

This town conservation land at the foot of the Mount Holyoke Range is perfect for walking, running, and cross-country skiing. Follow the trails in the Sweet Alice Conservation Area for a short, secluded walk or venture out into the Mount Holyoke Range State Park for a longer and more rigorous hike.



SW E E T A L I C E C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS

SUGGESTED ROUTE

This short counterclockwise loop trail is a little over one mile. From Bay Road, follow the yellow-blazed Sweet Alice Trail away from the road through the fields, while enjoying the view of the Mount Holyoke Range to the south. The trail continues into the woods before crossing a bridge over a small but beautiful brook. Stay right at the first and second intersections heading south then west. Walk along the trail headed west, then take a left south and keep right to take in the view of Plum Brook. Follow the trail back, then take a right and continue uphill before coming to a small opening at the powerline cut, this is a good place to watch birds and enjoy the view. Continue downhill to complete the loop. If you want to extend your hike to the Mount Holyoke Range State Park, take a right at the intersection and stay right through the powerline cut. To finish a short hike, take a left to follow the trail back down to the bridge, through the field and back to Bay Road.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Views of the Holyoke Range


Kestrel Land Trust partners with public agencies to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The Sweet Alice Conservation Area is owned by the Town of Amherst, and acquired with assistance from Kestrel. The Mount Holyoke Range State Park is owned by the Division of State Parks and Recreation. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of Amherst Department of Conservation413-259-3045

Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation413-253-2883

Watch Wildlife XC Ski / Snowshoe Spy Butterflies and Insects

Sniff Wildflowers


Walk/Jog

YOU SHOULD KNOW




DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 90 Bay Rd., Amherst, MA 01002

• Parking is available on Bay Road next to the conservation area

• Bus: 38 - Mount Holyoke / Hampshire / Amherst / UMass: Atkins Farm / Bay Road

v.1–Nov 2018

Parking

ParkingSwampy area

Bridge

KioskBridgeBridge

Houses

Field

Field

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

ERV-ING

ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

ORPE

RU

WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

GRANBY

B’TOWN

AMHERST PELHAM

HADL

EY

LOCATOR

PRIVATE LAND

0 500 FT

WENTWORTH FARM CONSERVATION AREA

Town of Amherst

OLD

FA

RM

RD

.

BELCHERTOWN RD.

(RT. 9)

G AT E-H O U S E R D.

STA N L E Y ST.

W E N T WO RT H FA R MC O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS

DISTANCE: 1.5 MILES TOTALOWEN’S POND

Fort River

NORTH

Other trails

Suggested route

Streams & rivers

The conservation lands around Wentworth Farm offer easy walking through open fields that allow expansive views of the sky, as well as access to fishing on Owen’s Pond.

SUGGESTED ROUTE

The trails on this land are made up of two separate loops around the edges of adjacent tree-rimmed fields, with a short trail linking the two. The loops can be accessed from two different parking areas. From Stanley Street, walk over a substantial bridge to cross the Fort River after passing through a swampy area. From Old Farm Road, view the kiosk and walk along Owen’s Pond to access the loops. To do both loops from either entrance is just over 1.5 miles, and includes several bridge crossings. Keep an eye out for the many nestboxes that are installed to see which birds are using them: house wrens, eastern bluebirds, tree swallows, perhaps American kestrels or eastern screech owls?



W E N T WO RT H FA R M C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E AAMHERST, MASS


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and portions are monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of AmherstDepartment of Conservation:413-259-3045

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Turtles at Owen’s Pond• The big views of Mount Holyoke Range and Pelham Hills• The swimming hole below the bridge over Fort River


Walk/Jog XC Ski / Snowshoe Bring Your Dog Sniff Wildflowers

YOU SHOULD KNOW




DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 135 Stanley St., Amherst, MA 01002

• Parking is available at the bend in Stanley Street beside the playing fields. A second parking area is off Old Farm Road, a short distance from its intersection with Route 9.

• Bus: 30 - North Amherst/ Old Belchertown Road: Rolling Green and Colonial Village Apts

Play in the Water

v.1–Nov 2018

A M E T H YST B R O O K C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ASAMHERST & PELHAM, MASS

DISTANCE: LESS THAN 2 MILES

Communitygardens

Bridge(to be fixed 2018)

Natural spring

Takein the view

Play in the stream

Stone spiral and bridge

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

ERV-ING

ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

ORPE

RU

WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

SHUTESBURY

BELCHER-TOWN

AMHE

RST PELHAM

HADL

EY

LOCATOR

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

AMETHYST BROOK CONSERVATION AREA

Town of Amherst

WHITNEY CONSERVATION AREA

Town of Pelham

PRIVATE CONSERVED FARMLAND

P E L H A M R D.

P E L H A M R D .

A M H E RST R D.

0 500 FTNORTH

Parking

Amethyst Brook

Bridge

KESTREL LANDTRUST LAND

Other trailsSuggested route Streams & rivers

Rob

ert F

rost Trail

Robert Frost Trail

Field

Am

herst/Pelham Tow

n Line

Dorie Goldman Trail


DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: Thayer St. & Pelham Rd., Amherst, MA 01002

• Parking is available on Pelham Road next to the conservation area

• Bus: 45 - Amherst/Thayer Street

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Three wooden bridges cross Amethyst Brook, providing places to pause to enjoy the water

PARTNERS MAKE CONSERVATION POSSIBLE:

Kestrel Land Trust works in close partnership with municipalities to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. For more information about the conserved town lands located here, contact:

Town of AmherstDepartment of Conservation:413-259-3045

Town of Pelham: Conservation Commission413-253-0512


A M E T H YST B R O O K C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ASAMHERST & PELHAM, MASS

YOU SHOULD KNOW


pick up after your pet• Respect adjacent private property


Walk/Jog Play in the Water Watch WildlifeXC Ski / Snowshoe

The conservation lands around Amethyst Brook, owned by the Town of Amherst, the Town of Pelham and Kestrel Land Trust, are loved for wonderful trails along a babbling brook.

SUGGESTED ROUTE

This double-looped trail is nearly 2 miles, and begins at the Town of Amherst’s trailhead parking lot on Pelham Road in Amherst. Follow the trail away from the road through the fields, which are home to the Town of Amherst’s Community Gardens. This red-blazed Robert Frost Trail crosses a bridge and continues through the woods along the brook. Pass a second bridge. At the third bridge, take time to walk a stone spiral on the left. Continue on the blue-blazed Dorie Goldman Trail onto Kestrel land. Follow the trail through the woods, then turn left away from the brook, notice a natural spring on the right, and walk up a short hill. At the top (the mid-way point of the hike) is a nice spot to take in the view of the tree canopy. Continue to follow the blue blazes through the woods, which are owned by the Town of Pelham, and make a left at the main red-blazed Robert Frost trail, which takes you back down the hill toward the brook. Now cross the second bridge for the second loop. Follow the red-blaze along the brook on your right now, back to the parking lot.


Bring Your Dog

v.1–Nov 2018

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

ERV-ING

ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

ORPE

RU

WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

AMHERST

PELHAM

BELCHER-

TOWN

LOCATOR

P E M B E RTO N M E M O R I A L FO R EST A N D B U T T E R H I L L W I L D L I F E SA N CT UA RY PELHAM, MASS

DISTANCE: JUST OVER 2 MILES

Oldquarry

Gully

Turn

Turn

Turn

TurnWet forest

Old bridge

Parking

0 500 FT

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

KESTREL LAND TRUST CONSERVED

LAND

BUTTER HILLWILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Town of Pelham

AR

NO

LD R

D.

NORTH

Suggested Route

Other Trails

Streams & rivers

The conserved forests off Arnold Road are loved for the wild woodland wildlife habitat. The marked descent (and the required ascent) will work your body and free your mind!

SUGGESTED ROUTE

This trail of just over two miles begins on the Pemberton Memorial Forest. The trail slowly rises, with a forested wetland on the right, and drier rise on the left, including a small old quarry. (Can you find it? Test your observational skills!) The trail soon enters Butter Hill Wildlife Sanctuary where it is marked with a blue blaze, and it crosses a gully then stays high and level for a while. The trail begins to descend, and where it terminates at a T intersection. Turn right and continue downhill. Stay straight where a red-blazed trail comes in on the right (you will return here), and continue down into a wet forest with several streams, still following the blue blazes. Turn right onto the red blaze trail, being careful at a couple of intersections to stay on the red blaze trail. Cross an old bridge (metal frame) over a stream (pausing perhaps to just catch your breath!). When you reach the blue trail, turn left and follow the trail back to the beginning.



P E M B E RTO N M E M O R I A L FO R EST A N D B U T T E R H I L L W I L D L I F E SA N T UA RY PELHAM, MASS


DIRECTIONS

• GPS Address: 70 Arnold Rd., Pelham, MA 01002

• Parking is available on the road on the left (east) side towards the end of Arnold Road, with the trail beginning opposite house #69

YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Open dawn to dusk, year round• Please keep dogs on leash and pick up

after your pet• Respect adjacent private property by

staying on the trail


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and Kestrel, and are monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of Pelham: Conservation Commission413-253-0512

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• A heavy metal frame over a rock wall sided section of stream. Just an old road bridge, or something more?

• A small old quarry dug into the hillside.

Walk/Jog Take PhotographsWatch Wildlife XC Ski / SnowshoeIdentify Tracks

v.1–Nov 2018

Parking

Rocky wonderland

Bridge

Historic homestead

Brook

Old car

Dog leg

NEW S

ALEM

MONTAGUE WENDELL

ORANGE

ATHOL

ERV-ING

ASHFIELD

HAWLEY

SAVOYW

INDS

ORPE

RU

WORTHINGTON

CHESTER

BLANDFORD


PALMER

MONSON BRIMFIELD

WARREN

WARE

HARDWICK

PETE

RSHAM

WILBRAHAM

MID

DLE-

FIEL

D

BUCKLAND

SHELBURNEGREEN-

FIELD

PLAINFIELD

CUMMINGTON

WESTFIELD

GRANBY

B’TOWN

AMHERST

PELHAM

HADL

EY

LOCATOR

W E L L AWAY FA R M A N D H A R K N ESS C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E APELHAM, MASS

DISTANCE: JUST OVER 1.5 MILES

Other trails

Suggested route

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

0 500 FT

WELL AWAY FARM CONSERVATION

RESTRICTIONPrivately Owned

HARKNESSCONSERVATION AREA

Town of Pelham

HA

RK

NES

S R

D.

SOUTH VALLEY R D.

NORTH

Streams & rivers

The privately owned Well Away Farm includes a public trail to Harkness Conservation Area. Together, they make a varied walk through an open field, wetlands, and deep forest, and a pleasant walk back along the road.



W E L L AWAY FA R M A N D H A R K N ESS C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E APELHAM, MASS

SUGGESTED ROUTE

This clockwise loop is just over 1.5 miles. From the trailhead sign on South Valley Road, walk through the forested strip into the first field. Follow the lower right edge of the field, and go through another strip of forest until you enter the second field. Again, follow the right edge of the field and enter the forest. Go over a bridge. Follow the trail markers as you weave and slowly ascend, crossing a mossy brook, until you reach a rocky wonderland. Pause to explore the rocks. Follow the markers a little longer until you reach a forest road; turn right. Follow the aqua blazes, passing a brook and, a bit further, an old car. The trail terminates at a T intersection. Take a left and then a quick right (dog leg turn) to be on the blue blaze trail, and follow that blaze color until it brings you to Harkness Road, noting a shrubby wetland on the left. Now you can either re-trace your steps through the forest, or complete the loop by walking along the road. To continue the loop, take a right on Harkness Road and walk until you see South Valley Road, where you will turn right (note the historic homestead on the corner) to proceed to the parking area.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns and landowners to create, conserve, and care for lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conserved lands here are owned by a private landowner and the Town and monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of PelhamConservation Commission:413-253-0512

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• The two grassy fields that let in the sky and provide another perspective on the forest.

• To test your eyes, try to spot an old car off the trail!


Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife XC Ski / Snowshoe Spy Butterflies and Insects

Visit Wetlands

YOU SHOULD KNOW




DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 60 South Valley Rd., Pelham, MA 01002

• Parking is available on the east side of South Valley Road, opposite house #61

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Brook crossing

Waterfall

Flat areaabove the ravine

Brook crossing

Steep slope

Parkingarea

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Other Trails

Suggested Route

H O L L A N D G L E N C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ABELCHERTOWN, MASS


HOLLAND GLENCONSERVATION AREA

Town of Belchertown

A M H E R S T R D. ( R T. 9 )

PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

NORTH

Streams & rivers

Steep slope

This conservation land offers a shady but steep and challenging hike along the Hop Brook ravine, which provides access to a series of waterfalls.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of Belchertown Conservation Commission:413-323-0405


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• One of the more significant waterfalls in the area, which flows all year round, but is particularly active in spring, and enchantingly icy in winter


H O L L A N D G L E N C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ABELCHERTOWN, MASS


Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife

SUGGESTED ROUTE

This loop trail is just over a mile, but feels longer due to the moderate ascent and descent. Follow the yellow blaze trail up the hill along Hop Brook ravine, underneath a hemlock canopy. The trail soon leads away from the brook, but comes closer again at a flat, high area above the ravine that is a great rest area. The yellow blazed trail continues up the hill and away from the brook, but look for the white blazed trail off to the right. Follow that trail down to a brook crossing. Stop to appreciate the clean flowing water! You will soon come to the rocky waterfall. If you aren’t feeling too adventurous, you may want to return the way you have just come. Otherwise, continue downstream following the white blazes. The trail becomes narrower as it traverses the side of the gully, but by following the brook, you will come to a wider part of the gully and a second brook crossing that returns you to the yellow blazed trail. Continue downhill to the trailhead where you began.

Take Photographs Identify Tracks

YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Open dawn to dusk, year round• Please keep dogs on leash and pick

up after your pet• Respect adjacent private property


DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 314 MA-9, Belchertown, MA 01007

• Parking is available at the trail head on the east side of Amherst Road (Route 9), just north of the Hop Brook bridge (north of house # 300)

• Bus: 45 - Belchertown Center/ UMass: Holland Glen

Play in the Water

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JA B I S H B R O O K C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ABELCHERTOWN, MASS


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JABISH BROOKCONSERVATION AREA

Town of Belchertown

Bridge

Sitting rocks

Bridge

Low ridge with mountain laurel

Bridge

Bridge

Big oakRock “puzzle”

Footbridge

Boy scout cabin

Main parking area

Suggested route

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PRIVATE LAND

PRIVATE LAND

NORTH

Streams & rivers

Limited roadside parking

The easy forested loop trail here provides access to the pristine Jabish Brook and a window into abundant wildlife habitat.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and portions are monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of BelchertownConservation Commission:413-323-0405


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• The footbridge over the clean flowing water of Jabish Brook.

• Mountain laurels flowering in spring• Signs of moose


JA B I S H B R O O K C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ABELCHERTOWN, MASS


Walk/Jog Watch WildlifeSUGGESTED ROUTE

This counterclockwise loop trail is just over 1 mile, and includes a handful of bridges. Follow the trail down from the parking area that is located a few hundred yards off 202, to Jabish Brook. Cross over the main bridge and turn right where the trail forks. The trail is well marked with a yellow star on a blue blaze. You will walk up a low ridge with mountain laurel, which is spectacular in late spring. The walk is then slightly uphill through deciduous forest, and small bridges allow you to cross seasonal brooks. The many nibbled hemlock saplings indicate that moose visit the area. Look for a big oak and further on a rock puzzle. The trail enters a shady hemlock forest with an inviting, open understory. There are numerous large sitting rocks; find a favorite one to sit on and enjoy the forest with all your senses! The trail descends back to Jabish Brook and stays close to the water. Enjoy the flowing water and note the Boy Scout hut on the left. Head back over the bridge and up to the trailhead where you began.

Sit a SpellTake Photographs Identify Tracks

YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Open dawn to dusk, year round• Please keep dogs on leash and pick

up after your pet• Respect adjacent private property


DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 513 U.S. 202, Belchertown, MA

• Parking is available on the east side of Route 202 (just over two miles north of the intersection with Routes 9) opposite House # 509. Parking is also available along the dirt road a couple hundred yards beyond (at the trailhead)

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Parking

Road

Undulating ground

Highpoint

RidgeShady brook

Forest begins

Ponds

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S CA R B O R O U G H B R O O KC O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ABELCHERTOWN, MASS


PRIVATE CONSERVED

LAND

PRIVATE LAND

SCARBOROUGH BROOKCONSERVATION AREA

Town of Belchertown

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New England Nat’l Scenic Trail

0 500 FTNORTH

Other trails

Suggested route

Streams & rivers

The conservation lands around Scarborough Brook are loved for the two fishing ponds and the surrounding field and forests. It is also home to a section of the long-distance New England National Scenic Trail with a nice view from the land’s high point.



S CA R B O R O U G H B R O O K C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ABELCHERTOWN, MASS

SUGGESTED ROUTE

This loop is just over one mile. Walk over the bridge and into the field that borders the two ponds. There are picnic tables and bird nestboxes in this area, and the upper pond is readily accessible. Follow the trail, which has white blazes, past the ponds to where the forest begins. The trail slowly rises, and a short side trail on the left leads down to the shady brook, which is worth a visit. Back on the main trail, the path rises more sharply and traverses the top of a small ridge, allowing excellent views into the forest. You will soon enter private property, so please be respectful of the landowner’s generosity. Turn right at a T intersection. You are soon at the high point of the walk, and approximately half-way through the loop. Pause here to enjoy the forest and the views through the trees. The trail weaves through undulating terrain to Gulf Road. Turn right and follow this quiet road back to the beginning.


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of BelchertownConservation Commission413-323-0405

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• An open field close to the parking area, with picnic tables and two wonderful ponds that attract a variety of wildlife

• A short side trail leading to a shady brook


Watch Wildlife Share a PicnicXC Ski / SnowshoeTake Photographs Spy Butterflies and Insects

YOU SHOULD KNOW




DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 499 Gulf Rd., Belchertown, MA 01007

• Parking is available on the left hand side of Gulf Road, near the four way intersection of Gulf Road with North and South Gulf Roads, opposite house # 454 Gulf Road

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MEAD’S CORNER CONSERVATION AREA

Town of Belchertown

MEAD’S CORNER

CONSERVATION AREA

Kestrel Land Trust

Seasonalbrook

Stone walls converge

Turn

Pull off

Parking

Locked gate

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CADWELL MEMORIAL FORESTUniversity of Massachusetts

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M E A D ’ S C O R N E R C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ABELCHERTOWN & PELHAM, MASS


PRIVATE LANDPRIVATE LAND

Other trails

Suggested route

Streams & rivers

NORTH

The conservation lands at Mead’s Corner are loved for the easy and flat stroll through deciduous woodland. The stone walls tell a story of the area’s farming history when there were once many sheep but few trees!


Kestrel Land Trust partners with towns to create, conserve, and care for public lands to help everyone connect with nature. The conservation lands here are owned by the Town and Kestrel and monitored by Kestrel through a Conservation Restriction. For more information contact Kestrel or:

Town of Belchertown413-323-0405


WHAT TO LOOK FOR

• Old stone walls• The private historic house opposite

the trail head


M E A D ’ S C O R N E R C O N S E RVAT I O N A R E ABELCHERTOWN & PELHAM, MASS


SUGGESTED ROUTE

This loop is just over one mile. Walk around the locked gate and follow the wide vehicle trail for half a mile. On both sides of the road there are well-formed rock walls that date back to the 1800s when this landscape was grazed by sheep. The woods are largely deciduous, and are shady in summer and sunny in winter. You will come to an area with several signs tacked onto the trees, indicating a trail on the right. Turn down this trail, sometimes used by ATVs, and weave through converging stonewalls, across a seasonal brook, and down to Gold Street. Turn right on Gold Street and walk back along this quiet road to the where you began. Afterwards, you can head ¾ mile down Gulf Road to Scarborough Brook Conservation Area to enjoy the two ponds, picnic tables, and perhaps take another loop walk there!

Walk/Jog Watch Wildlife Take PhotographsIdentify Tracks XC Ski / Snowshoe

YOU SHOULD KNOW




DIRECTIONS

• GPS address: 400 Gold St., Belchertown, MA 01007

• Parking is available at the corner of Gold and Packardville Roads, but be careful not to block the locked gate at the beginning of the trail

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Documents

TRAILS FOR EVERYONE IN HAMPSHIRE COUNTY, … · the trail hugs the hillside with the pond more visible below. Turning away from the pond, the trail slowly sweeps right and up to join