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Hike of Wachusett Meadow
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We began our hike of the Massachusetts Audubon Society's Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary on the North Meadow Trail, with a
gorgeous view across the snow-covered fields of what was once a colonial farm. |
Our hike was Andrew's first time organizing an Outing Club trip. Being from the area and having volunteered at Wachusett Meadow,
Andrew knew the sanctuary's trails well and leads the way as we head north toward Brown Hill.
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Although technically the first weekend of spring, bare trees, undisturbed white snow, and bright sunshine were the perfect recipe
for a gorgeous winter landscape.
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We spotted a rock! It was a most impressive rock. The rock was a glacial boulder deposited by the last ice age. |
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Beyond the boulder, we followed the Brown Hill Loop to the Summit Trail to the top of Brown Hill. The climb wasn't too steep but was a little slippery in spots due to the snow. |
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At 1312 feet, the views were very nice! To the south we could see the hills on Worcester's outskirts, while Mt. Wachusett loomed large to the north.
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On the Summit Trail, Greg and Andrew figure out our next move.
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Eventually, we find our way down to the Beaver Bend Trail in hope of exploring the beaver meadow.
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Along the Heron Rookery Trail, piles of hemlock branches and porcupine poop. This can only mean one thing...
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Porcupine!!!!
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Gianna and Christian make their way in with cameras for a closer shot. The porcupine was sooo cute! Despite all of our commotion, it never stirred from its afternoon nap. |
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We finally reached the edge of the Beaver Meadow but the trail down to the brook running through it was closed. So we stayed to admire the view for a while before turning around. |
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We hike though the fields along the Pasture Trail en route back to the visitors center.
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Our group chillin' out on the Pasture Trail as we near the end of an amazing Sunday afternoon hike.
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