Fall is finally arriving at the Neponset Reservoir in Foxboro
The first time I visited the Lane Homestead, on North Street in Foxboro, not only was it difficult to find, it was challenging to find a place to park my car.
Landscaped entrance to Lane Homestead, along with Education center
I visited the same area recently and found: a flashing light at the entrance to the property (evidently warning about the railroad crossing a few yards down the road), paved parking areas, a handicapped accessible deck over the Neponset River, a learning center,
Eagle Scout project–Story Book Trail
and even a Story Book trail!
The bright sun brought out the fall colors along the edge of the water
I hoped to get some views of foliage along the edge of the reservoir, and while the foliage has been slow in coming this fall, there were, indeed, plenty of lovely water views, and some nice color.
View from one of the spits of land jutting out into the reservoir
Several spits of land take you out into the middle of the reservoir, the headwaters of the Neponset River.
Fall is finally arriving at the Neponset Reservoir in Foxboro
When we visited, the entire area was quiet, and the sun was shining. I learned later from a conservation commision member that the lake is not always that quiet.
Neponset Reservoir, very quiet in the fall, but not aways!
In fact, in summer months, expect to hear jet skis, motor boats, and all sorts of other activity in the reservoir. The entrance on North Street does not lend itself to getting canoes or kayaks into the water, but there is a public boat ramp on Chestnut street, at the south end of the reservoir.
Wide path out to spit of land
The wide, clear trails make for very easy walking, and there is enough variety in the terrain to make any walk interesting. Besides, the trail hugs the shoreline for much of the way. From North Street you can walk on trails nearly a mile down to Chestnut Street, where there is additional parking. A trail map we got at the learning center is available on line at the Foxboro conservation commision website.
Shade or bright sun–lots of both on these trails
It’s hard to believe how near this now-quiet spot is to the confusion and noise of Gillette Stadium. But at least on non-event days, it’s a great spot to head to for time outdoors along the trail. When something’s going on at the stadium, I’ll make no promises about peace or quiet.
Marjorie
Marjorie Turner Hollman is a writer who loves the outdoors, and is the author of Easy Walks in Massachusetts, 2nd edition, More Easy Walks in Massachusetts, 2nd edition, Easy Walks and Paddles in the Ten Mile River Watershed, and Finding Easy Walks Wherever You Are. Her memoir, the backstory of Easy Walks, is My Liturgy of Easy Walks: Reclaiming hope in a world turned upside down.
Marjorie Turner Hollman 