July 10, 2020 – Pepperell Covered Bridge – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Pepperell Covered Bridge in Pepperell, Massachusetts. The Pepperell Covered Bridge traverses the Nashua River. It was originally built in 1818 but has been rebuilt three times, most recently in 2010. The Bridge has access for vehicles, and pedestrians.

We had a local Adventure to the Pepperell Covered Bridge. I had been there once before with Shadow and Buster but do not believe I took any photographs. We found the small parking area indicated for the Nashua River Access Area, and parked near the bridge. There was a small walkway with some information kiosks and memorials. We visited these features before trotting over to the bridge. The bridge was somewhat dull in color, as was the hazy sky. I posed Wilma, who smiled grandly before heading over the pedestrian walkway. Wilma was obsessed with looking out the bridge, down the stream, very focused and curious. I am guessing she was able to see, or smell the nearby farm animals. We walked through the bridge and to the other side. There was a loose dog running around so we just snapped one quick photograph before heading back.

After exploring the Pepperell Covered Bridge from above we headed over to a short and steep trail down to the side of the Bridge to see the side. Seeing the simple front, I was surprised to find a more scenic bridge, with lattice-like style. Wilma enjoyed a couple sips from the water before we headed back to the car. I was quite disappointed to see a great amount of glass on this path, but was grateful that we did not have any incidents.

So glad we could Adventure to the Pepperell Covered Bridge today (Rating: 3.5).

Throwback Adventure – The Nashua River Rail Trail (Pepperell) -2015-2016

I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Throwback Adventure”, and will plan on posting them every Thursday. These are journeys we have taken before I started the blog, but are well worth sharing. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!

Shadow, Buster, and I had many, many Adventures to The Nashua River Rail Trail between 2015-2016 while living locally. The Nashua River Rail Trail is an approximately eleven mile trail that runs from Nashua, New Hampshire to Ayer, Massachusetts. As expected it is built on a former railroad. The Nashua River Rail Trail is popular for biking, horseback riding, walking, fishing, and roller blading.

We had many wonderful Adventures to the Nashua River Rail Trail. Our walks always began in Pepperell, and I often wondered if we ventured into another town as we wandered for hours. We found trails off the paved trail to rivers, and scenic, quiet spots. One time we even spotted a horse, who was far from thrilled to spot two large dogs. Even after heading far off the trail to avoid the horse, it just about bucked the rider off. Luckily she stayed on and we returned to the path to continue our walk.

I found the Nashua River Rail Trail to be especially pretty in the Fall months, the sun streaming over the water. The trail did parallel homes at some points, but often was deep in the woods, quite peaceful. There were some simple fences along the trail, in one location framing a marsh-like area. I did my best to locate a variety of photographs from our many Adventures. Definitely a lovely rail trail to explore (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Jeff Smith Trail – Massachusetts

In December of 2014 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to the Jeff Smith Trail in Pepperell, Massachusetts. The Jeff Smith Trail is a conservation trail which runs through the “Blood Brook Ravine” land. There is parking for this Trail on Jewett Street and on Heald Street. The trail includes: a shoreline walk along the pond, follows a steep ridge above the pond, and weaves through the ravine that follows the Blood Brook. The total round trip hike is just under three miles.

We had an enjoyable adventure to the Jeff Smith Trail. I do not post many of our local conservation Adventures, however, sometimes feel inspired to share. On this particular walk I remember appreciating the unique landscape, the steep views of the lake, the ravine, and the Brook throughout our hike. We did not see a sole on the trail, and were swept away into the arms of nature. We found a beaver dam along the trail, and explored all the little spots we could find. I do not believe I ever researched this trail (until blogging) however spotted it on a drive through the area. A trail with water always catches my eye and am glad that we stopped for a hike on this brown, crisp, winter day. Not a fancy hike by all means, but yet a nice place to explore for the local followers and friends. Make sure you check out your local conservation land, you will often find a lovely spot (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).