TRAIL HIKES
Gamlin Crystal Spring
Families are invited to join Nashua River Watershed Association naturalists on an adventure exploring spectacular hemlock forest, glacial rock outcrops and erratics, porcupine territory and beaver ponds at this fascinating conservation property owned by Groton Conservation Trust. Walk at Gamlin Crystal Spring Conservation Area in Groton, Sat., Oct. 19, 1- 2:30 p.m.
What wildlife inhabits each area? How did Wisconsin Ice Age shape the land? Where do porcupines live? This hike is a fun fall outing for the whole family. Appropriate for all ages; backpack babies welcome. Bring your own drinking water. Fee: $6/person or $18/family for NRWA members; $8/person or $24/family non-members. Pre-registration required; meeting location and directions provided upon registration. To pre-register, contact Stacey Chilcoat, NRWA River Classroom Director, at 978-448-0299, or email StaceyC@NashuaRiverWatershed.org.
Lancaster Town Forest
Explore woods and trails of Lancaster Town Forest, created in 1946 when Arthur W. Blood donated approximately 125 acres, which now totals nearly 400 acres. Nashua River Watershed Association invites the public to this free "Guided Hike at Lancaster Town Forest " Sat., Oct. 26, 1-3 p.m.
See active beaver ponds, interesting rock outcroppings, and diverse mature forest stands. Walk for about 1.5 hours at a moderate pace. Guides will be Al Futterman, NRWA Land Programs Director, and Tim Castner, chair of Lancaster Town Forest Committee. Tim has taught history at Nashoba Regional High School for 15 years, and serves on Lancaster Trails and Bikeway Coalition. Meet at Wheelwright Entrance on Brockelman Rd.; View Google map and directions at www.NashuaRiverWatershed.org. Parking is on east side of road approx. one mile south of Rt. 117. No dogs allowed.
NRWA is leading monthly walks on conservation properties in our watershed communities to encourage residents to get to know more about local natural places, and to enjoy a healthy lifestyle through outdoor activity. Pre-registration appreciated by contacting Al Futterman 978-448-0299, or email AlF@NashuaRiverWatershed.org.
Shepley Hills
Sun., Oct. 13, 1 p.m., join a guided hike on Shepley Hills, led jointly by Groton Trails Committee and Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC).
This conservation area, owned by Groton Conservation Trust, is a great place to experience New England woods in fall splendor. The walk on is about three miles and two hours long, and suitable for families with hiking children. Dogs must be kept under owner's control. Wear comfortable hiking shoes. Hike held unless it is very stormy.
Meet to start where Nod Rd./Sand Hill Rd. crosses the Rail Trail in Groton (Coord. 42.6324N, 71.5758W). No pre-registration required. For information, contact: Olin Lathrop, olin@embedinc.com, 978-742-9014.