Take a Walk on the Quieter Wild Side

In Northfield, Massachusetts, there is a fine example of a local wheelchair accessible trail that takes you into the forest to a delightful hidden pond. The half mile loop trail is sandwiched among private properties off Route 63, five and a half miles north of Route 2/Millers Falls. If you aren't watching carefully on the road you might fly right by this small jewel. Such local and lesser known trails are a wonderful option to get out of the house without having to face overcrowded parks during the current period of social restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic.

I have been visiting the Ames Accessible Trail at Alderbrook Meadows during the past month as I live just a few miles away. Either I have the place to myself or I see a couple of people. The parking lot has 3 designated accessible parking spots. Vehicles without wheelchair users can park along the roadside where there is plenty of available space. There is no restroom facility.

This is a great spot to observe the coming of spring. Over the warmer months I have had some wonderful encounters with birds, butterflies and wildflowers here. It's a nice place to visit during a light rain as well - that is when I've witnessed larger wildlife on site, including beaver and coyote.

On the cooler, cloudier days we've seen so many of this spring, the place is pretty quiet, save for the sound of occasional road traffic. Until the leaves emerge, this will be a noticeable factor.

Cool breezes keep activity and songsters at low ebb during the afternoon hours. A few local avian residents will still appear, such as the black-capped chickadee and tufted titmouse. You might hear a song sparrow or a pine warbler singing. As the weather warms I have found this spot to be a good place to see and hear warblers in migrating groups as well as other birds coming to breed in the forest and wetland area, such as the pair of Canada geese already at home on the pond.

The stone dust trail itself is in great shape, even  after heavy rain. It is well signed, with a kiosk map at the start and another halfway through. There are three places to stop and sit on a substantial wooden bench, plus an observation deck overhanging the pond. The entry route to the forest loop has a lengthy incline for some (128 feet at 7%), and wheelchair assistance may be necessary. The map shows three trail sections at 12.5%, which again may require wheelchair assistance for some. A power chair user isn't likely to have an issue with the grade. 

The Gunnery Sergeant Jeffery S. Ames Accessible Nature Trail was created by the Mt. Grace Land Conservation Trust with funds from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Trails Grant, guidance from native American tribal representatives, and volunteers from Lane Construction, North Quabbin Trails Association and Pioneer Valley Regional Schools. Northfield is located on the north border of Massachusetts along the Connecticut River. Alderbrook Meadows is located at 839 Millers Falls Road. If you are wondering about the "Meadows", the trail is near a meadow that is not part of the trail loop but can be viewed through the trees to the south.

Not only is this trail great for people using wheelchairs and nature lovers, it is also great for young families and anyone who might have navigational concerns, as the well-defined trail offers little possibility for getting lost!

If you choose to make your way to Alderbrook Meadows this spring, please follow the guidelines DCR is asking of park visitors: 

• Stay local - visit parks closer to home
• Limit excursions to short periods of time (if park is busy)
• Don't stay if the park is crowded - return at another time or date
• Stay solitary or within small groups
• Only participate in transitory activities, such as walking, jogging, biking
• Avoid gatherings of more than 10 people
• Practice social distancing of at least 6 feet
• Participate only in non-contact recreational activities
• Practice healthy personal hygiene, such as wearing a mask
• Stay home if ill, over 70, or part of a vulnerable population