In this article, I will be writing about the beautiful trail that travels through the old town of Monson. This trail, which I call The Federal Hill Trail, is Hollis’ main trail that leads to all points west and north.

If you head east from Federal Hill Road, you will be travelling on a gradual downhill grade ending up on Hayden Road in about a mile. If you head west from Hayden Road, the trail is a gentle incline and perfect for a slightly more strenuous hike. The trail is wide, and mostly gravel, containing little grass. There is parking where the trail starts on Federal Hill Road, as well as at the Hayden Road end. If you are looking to go on a short walk, try parking a car on Hayden Road, and one at the end on Federal Hill Road.

This trail has amazing scenery for hikers in summer, and cross-country skiers and snowshoers in winter.

In summer, the tree canopy overhead helps the trail stay very cool providing relief for hikers, dog walkers, bike riders and equestrians.

Along the Monson portion of the trail, there are many bird houses making the trail a perfect place to bird watch. Butterflies also are visible at many times along the path.

In fall, this trail brings out New England’s foliage, and the trail becomes infused with vibrant reds, oranges and yellows as the leaves change.

The trail is bordered by beautiful, old stonewalls, which at one time marked the sides of the roads. If you follow this trail east across Hayden Road about a third of a mile you will pass the remains of an old mill and stone dam on the banks of Witches Brook. Another quarter mile will bring you to a bridge that crosses Witches Brook and a nice watering spot for pets and horses. Cross the bridge and the trail leads you to Route 122. If you go on a hike through this trail, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the scenery.

This particular trail is very unique, as it passes historical locations, including Monson Center, a part of the old historic town of Monson.

Monson was founded in 1737, and is considered one of New Hampshire’s first settlements.

At one point, almost 300 people inhabited the town of Monson. Those 300 people left a lot behind for us to see, including old stone foundations, cellar holes, stone walls and the main road, Adam Road, which is now the part of the trail you walk on. You walk right by the restored Joseph Gould home and clock shop in Monson Center.

Russ Dickerman has made this his life mission to preserve and save the old historic town center of Monson. He can often be seen in Monson with his dog.

On the particular day I walked the trail, I had to opportunity the to speak with him. Russ is very aware and knowledgeable when it comes to the history of the site. If you happen to run into him on the trail, be sure to approach him to learn more about Monson.

Placed around Monson Center is a Geocache site. Monson Center is considered one of New England’s most significant archeology sites. On the trail, there is also an old stone culvert, which allows water to run under the old road, which is now the trail.

This summer, the Hollis Nor’Easters trail crew spent time cleaning this trail. They cut back a lot of brush, and took down old rotted trees. The Hollis Nor’Easters have also built several bridges on this trail.

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.

The Hollis Nor’Easters trail map is perfect to assist in exploring the area. This map includes many of the trails in the Hollis, Brookline and Milford region. If you are interested in this map of the region’s trails, please visit the Hollis Pharmacy, Monument Square Market or email Amos White at amost
white@gmail.com.

If you would like to contribute to the Nor’Easters trail building and maintenance effort 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.

Our next guided hike will be at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 18. We will meet at Silver Lake State Park and will hike The Loop trail. This three-mile trail is on the west side of Federal Hill Road across from Monson and has just been completed by our trail crew. For more information, email Amos White at amostwhite@gmail.com.

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