Otter River State Forest

October 13, 2019 Sunny

Otter River State Forest was the first area acquired by the State Forest Commission in 1915, and also the first campground in the Massachusetts State Park system.

There are a number of trails, but we decided to take a trail, about 2 miles round trip, to Lake Dennison.

Immediately we noticed that we were walking in the pine forest. It was such a contrast from the surrounding areas that had more maples and birches and colors. The trail was narrow and at places quite steep.

We saw large areas of the pine forest being cleared. The sign on the trail explained that this State Park was reforested with groves of pines which were planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930’s.

Otter River looks like a great place to camp, and we will surely check it out in the spring when the campground (and yurts) and open.

The recent clearings gave the forests an interesting texture but road noise was a noticeable presence.
Forest has limited views. Not as colorful as other forests in the area.
Just another futile forest…
The hike was cool and so were the trees.
I liked running down the hill.