A TRAIL FOR EVERYONE AT
W H AT E LY C E N T E R W O O D S
N AT U R E R E T R E AT
WHATELY, MA
SUGGESTED ROUTE
This clockwise double loop can be either 1 or 1.5 miles, and features wetland views.
From the parking area on Chestnut Plain Road, follow bog bridging that winds through
the wetland and transitions to a larger boardwalk. Marked by blue blazes, the trail
travels through the forest and connects with an old woods road. Follow the trail left
to encounter one of the most beautiful sections, where two footbridges cross small
streams and offer lovely spots to enjoy afternoon light. Check out the Native Names
box, located between the bridges.
The trail turns right and runs alongside the stream. A staircase brings you up a short, steep
grade and offers views of a small waterfall. The trail ascends gently before joining a second
woods road. Those looking for a shorter hike (.88 mile) can turn right onto the Shortcut
Trail, using step stones to cross the stream and following the woods road north to where it
intersects with another running northeast. (Note: The Shortcut Trail is muddy in spring.)
Hikers looking for a longer loop (1.1 miles) can take a left to continue on the Big Loop. This
woods road quickly meets a snowmobile trail. Turn right and enjoy stream views and thick
mountain laurel alongside the trail. Follow the snowmobile trail until it connects to the
woods road running northeast. Take a right onto the road and descend slightly through
hemlock and beech trees. This route swings back around, completing the loop and
allowing hikers to exit back through the wetland boardwalk to the parking area.
YOU SHOULD KNOW
• Open dawn to dusk, year round
• Dogs must be on leash; please pick
up after your pet
• Please stay on the trail and respect
private property.
• Some trails are muddy after wet
weather
• Boardwalks not cleared of snow in
winter
DIRECTIONS
• GPS address: 125 Chestnut Plain Rd.,
Whately, MA
• Gravel parking area accommodates
approximately 6 cars
WHAT YOU CAN DO HERE
Walk/Jog
PARTNERS MAKE
CONSERVATION POSSIBLE
Kestrel Land Trust works with landowners
and other partners to create, conserve,
and care for public lands to help everyone
connect with nature.
This land is owned and managed by
Kestrel Land Trust.
For more information contact us at
kestreltrust.org or call (413) 549-1097.
May 2022
XC Ski / SnowshoeIdentify TracksVisit Wetlands Cross a Bridge