RETURN TO TRADITION #15: The Westside Trail Traditional Cache

The Westside Trail is a rail trail recently opened and managed by the Pepperell Conservation Commission. It is a work in progress as the town continues to acquire property and rights of way along the river. You can read more about this area and its history on the Town of Pepperell Conservation Commission web page: (www.town.pepperell.ma.us/conservation/Westsiderail.html

Parking is available at either end of the rail trail but the approach from the southwest is much more scenic. When planning and placing this cache I saw many beavers, a great blue heron, a mother duck with four ducklings following faithfully, a wide variety of local birds, and a large turtle sunning in the middle of the path! Bring binoculars.

The southwest access gate is at N42 37.830 W071 35.888. Parking on this busy road may be problematic but there is a small pull-off just past the gate. Otherwise you will have to be creative - especially in winter.

The less advisable departure point (in my opinion) is just off Rte. 111. Turn off the main road at N42 38.743  W71 35.511 and follow the dirt road around the horse training ring for about 100 yards to the SECOND left which will take you to a small rustic parking area right on the river at N42 38.704  W71 35.346. This may not be available in winter.

The cache itself is a large ammo box. The original contents include log book and two pencils, an emergency poncho, love bracelet, hearts card game, school bus key holder, fish stickers and pencils, light-up superball, toy taxi, and a valentine flashlight.

There is poison ivy on either side of the main trail but it should not be a problem as the trail is wide. The secondary trail and cache area are poison ivy free but I would still be careful. It is not necessary (or advisable) to bushwhack as the cache is within ten feet of the trail. You will also see an old beaver lodge and much evidence of very AMBITIOUS  past beaver activity! Round trip distance from either end is a little over one mile.

Good luck!