Eagles Reserve - A Wheelchair Accessible Walk on the Wild Side

For those in north central Massachusetts looking for a new vista, Eagle's Reserve Conservation Area is a worthy drive. The Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust has built a beautiful wheelchair accessible trail to the water's edge of an extensive wetland where yes, you can see eagles soaring.

It is probably a lengthy drive to Eagles Reserve for most visitors and on back roads so you will definitely see countryside on your way. The destination is ultimately local, just perfect for those seeking some quieter time away from people. You might see another vehicle in the 6-8 car lot, but most likely you won't. Watch for the small sign along the road at 55 Winchendon Road, Royalston.

A kiosk with map awaits you at the start of the trail, where you can get oriented and learn a bit more about this wild spot not far from Royalston center. The David H. Small Community Nature Trail is named after a wonderful local independent naturalist, president of the Athol Bird and Nature Club, and former DCR Assistant Regional Director for the Quabbin Reservoir. Dave's enthusiasm about nature has been a gift to his community for decades and he remains actively involved in everything to do with birds, dragonflies, moths, and more.

The trail is a gradual descent to the water's edge equivalent to a third of a mile. There are a couple of pull-overs along the way in case a rest is needed on the return trip. I saw a fallen pine tree cut at the first pull-out but there is still plenty of room to allow someone to pass if need be. You will cross a well built bridge before you get to the observation deck. Bring binoculars if you have them for the best view of any eagles in the air, as well as other wildlife. Approach the deck quietly to avoid startling anything close you might like to see.

The observation deck has a couple of benches and I sat there to eat lunch. You can settle in and let nature resume all around you. I was there earlier this spring twice. Both times I saw eagles in the air - straight out and to the left where I suspect they might be nesting. There are several beaver lodges in view. The wetland is quite large - I was struck by the magnificence of the place. You cannot see it all from the deck but what you experience is a genuine sense of being "out there". I thought of Dave on both my visits as there was abundant migratory warbler activity to the left of the deck where the wetland drains into the forest. It is as likely a place to see an otter or two or a moose as ever I've come across.

I found it hard to leave this spot, as it is such a delightful destination. Nonetheless, when it is time to go, the return though the forest is a peaceful transition.

Keep in mind, there are no bathrooms on site. Royalston center doesn't have typical storefronts or a gas station but there might be a chance to use a bathroom at the town hall if it is open. If not, Athol will likely be the next bet for public facilities.

There are two other short but not wheelchair accessible 1/2 mile trails nearby on the Mt. Grace property for those who would like to explore more on conventional trails. I hiked the Peninsula Trail that starts at a small kayak launch and travels along the shoreline then up onto an esker, a small ridge left from glacial activity long ago. You can avoid the steep climbs on an alternate side trail and still catch more views into the wetland, which has extensive bogs not visible from the accessible deck. To do so you must be able to maneuver over a large fallen tree at the very start of the trail. Another trail off adjacent Stone Road travels along a hayfield and might get you closer to eagles. In both cases, you cannot park at the trailhead and must walk along the (generally quiet) paved road a ways to access the trail. These options are shown on the trail kiosk at the accessible trail.

In addition to following safe practices outlined by the CDC and Massachusetts Department of Public Health, please be sure to follow these additional DCR guidelines for safe park visiting:

• Minimize outdoor recreational time to limit potential exposure to COVID-19;
• Stay within solitary or small groups, and avoid gatherings of ten or more people;
• Practice social distancing of at least six feet between individuals;
• Administer healthy personal hygiene, such as handwashing for at least 20 seconds;
• Participate in only non-contact recreational activities;
• Leave a park or area should large gatherings begin to build; and,
• Stay home if ill, over 70, and/or part of a vulnerable population.