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Series features Hollis trails

This summer, I will be introducing you to a little jewel known as the Hollis Trail System. This is a network of multi-use trails, built and maintained by volunteer labor and private donations of equipment and material. These maintained trails run from Hollis through Brookline into Milford, Wilton and Mason, where they connect with the Mason rail trail that runs to Greenville and south to Townsend, Mass. Today’s article is an overview of the trail system, with additional articles to follow.

The trails are accessible year-round. The scenery changes constantly with the seasons. Spring brings lush greenery and blossoming plants and trees. In the summer, the trails provide relief from the hot sun and are ideal for hikers, dog walkers, bike riders and equestrians. The trails also are wonderful for running during the summer. The air is cooler, and there is no need to worry about vehicles. Fall brings breathtaking foliage, which is a New England trademark. Winter offers the opportunity to explore snow-covered trails. In the winter months, they are great for snowshoers, cross-country skiers, hikers and snowmobilers.

There is much to explore on the trail system. On one of the trails, views of Boston can be seen on clear days. The trails also pass many old stone foundations from past homes, barns and mills. The trails run right through the center of the old village of Monson. There is a very unique foundation from the old starch mill by Pratt Pond in Mason. Bodies of water and brooks, including Silver Lake and Dunklee Pond in Hollis, Melendy Pond and Lake Potanipo in Brookline, and Pratt Pond in Mason, can be seen right from the trails.

To maintain the trails, the Hollis Nor’Easters, along with the Hollis Trail Committee and the Hollis Area Equestrians, have people working all year.

During the spring, summer and fall, people work to clear brush and fallen trees.

They also rebuild and reconstruct the trails to make them more accessible. In the winter, the Hollis Nor’Easters groom the snow-covered trails for everyone’s enjoyment. This summer, the Nor’Easters have a nine-person crew out cleaning up the trails.

When using the trails, keep in mind that many sections cross private property and it is important to respect landowners. Make sure to obey all signs.

If you are interested in discovering and exploring some trails, please join us on our Introductory Trail Walk at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 14.

For more information, contact Amos White at amostwhite@gmail.com. Those interested should meet at the Silver Lake parking lot, off Route 122 in Hollis.

The Hollis Nor’Easters trail map is perfect to assist one in exploring the area. This map is very detailed, with all of the trails marked in the region.

If you are interested in a map of some of the region’s trails, please visit the Hollis Pharmacy, Monument Square Market or email Amos White at amostwhite@gmail.com.

If you would like to contribute to this cause, you can join the Hollis Nor’Easters or make a donation to the Hollis Nor’Easters trail fund. Please visit our website at www.noreasters.org.

In the future, look for our articles featuring specific trails.

Michaela McLaughlin is a member of the Hollis Nor’Easters Club.