The 8 arch bridge is best enjoyed off the trail. The arches are only visible to passers-by, but still, the views from the bridge itself–now that is what keeps me returning to this spectacular spot along the Holliston Upper Charles Trail.
I was invited to be a guest on Mary Greendale’s “Just Thinking” show on Holliston Cable TV, and because the pandemic just keeps dragging on, we agreed to meet at the edge of the 8 arch bridge to do our taping outdoors.
The weather cooperated, the air was still, and the foliage was breathtaking as we set up for taping.
We chatted together about my latest book, Finding
Easy Walks Wherever You Are, as visitors to the trail passed by, stealing curious glances at the cameras and the two older women perched in chairs at the edge of the bridge.
I’ve known Mary since I was contacted about five years ago to lend my support to efforts to restore the dangerously crumbling bridge. Mary was leading efforts to save the bridge, and their group needed money, $75,000, to conduct an engineering study to confirm if the bridge was able to be saved. The money was raised, the study conducted, additional funds were found to restore and make the bridge safe for rail trail visitors. Success!
What fun to meet Mary again and think back on those days when the result we hoped for was not a sure thing. But Mary is nothing if not determined, and in large part because of her advocacy, the 8 arch bridge is safely restored to be enjoyed by all.
Mary also urged me to investigate further the Holliston Conservation properties in town. I had looked into some locations briefly when updating the More Easy Walks in Massachusetts book that includes paths in Holliston. But Mary pointed me to several places I had not yet come across. More trails to explore. Happy Trails!
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 
My husband and I just discovered this trail at the urging of our son, who often goes there to run. What a gem…hope the locals appreciate it and it’s easy access from downtown Holliston.
Nice write-up, Marjorie.
HOw wonderful. We really are lucky to have some great rail trails quite nearby. So glad to hear you enjoyed yourselves. And agreed. It truly is a gem.