Richard Cheek
Stone walls serve as reminders that while this lovely woodland now bursts with color, it has a pastureland heritage.
At the peak of spring, the flowers of Elliott Laurel emerge as pink buds that gradually open to a brilliant white, brightening the shady woodland floor. These thickets of mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) surround pine tree trunks and old stone walls along a short looping trail, giving the place its name.
Those looking for a longer adventure can traverse the Hemlock Loop, which climbs a rocky hillside through a hemlock stand and forest of white pine. The trail opens to a red maple swamp which lights with radiant color in the fall.
WHEN TO VISIT
Daily, sunrise to sunset. Allow a minimum of one hour.
ADMISSION
FREE to all.
Please note that roadside parking is not plowed in the winter.
392 Queen Lake Road/Route 101
Phillipston, MA 01331
E-mail:info@thetrustees.org
Get directions on Google Maps.
From Rt. 2: Take Exit 83 and follow Rt. 2A West for 1.1 mi. into Templeton Center. Pick up Rt. 101 South and follow for 3.9 mi. to entrance and roadside parking on right.
From Intersection of Rts. 32 and 101: Take Rt. 101 North 3.6 mi. to entrance and roadside parking on left.
Trails
1-mile trail. Moderate hiking.
We recommend that you take a photo of the map on your phone so you can refer to it during your visit, or download a trail map before you head out.
Original acreage a gift of Frederick W. Elliott in 1941 in memory of his mother. Endowment given by Olive Simes. Additional land purchased in 1975.
This is a mix of open field (mowed) and woods. There is a bit of a hill but nothing too strenuous. The hemlock stand is nice with beautiful open woods. This is a nice spot for a short hike. There is a little less than a mile of trails.
– dave d, TripAdvisor