Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Sturbridge

With over 1,400 acres of oak-hickory forest and freshwater, Wells State Park has something for every nature explorer! Explore its 12 miles of trails on foot, mountain bike, horseback, or cross-country ski. Dip your toes in Walker Pond, which also offers kayaking, canoeing, an assortment of fishing, and a campers-only swimming beach. Be sure to visit Carpenter Rocks, whose summit boasts an impressive view that overlooks the surrounding forest.

A robust multi-purpose area, Leadmine Mountain boasts over 11 miles of trail, spanning everything from oak and pine forest to submerged wetland. Visitors are invited to use the trails for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. For a truly unique hike, be sure to walk along Arbutus Park Trail, which loops around a dazzling, serene emerald lagoon. Fishing and hunting are permitted on the property, so be sure to wear bright orange during the hunting season. Motorized vehicles are not permitted.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Tantiusques Reservation is an outdoor excursion and history lesson rolled into one. The reservation was once a great source of graphite and was mined for centuries by the native Nipmuc tribe and local English colonists until it was abandoned in the late 1800s. Today, hikers can still see an open mine shaft and partially-filled mine cut, the only remnants of New England’s first-ever mining operation.

Also referred to as “Titanic Railroad,” this unique trail follows the path of an old railroad bed. You won’t see any tracks, however, as the project was shortly abandoned after its founder perished on the ill-fated Titanic (hence the trail’s nickname). Instead, you’ll be treated to a pleasant nature walk on a well-constructed, fine gravel trail, whose wide width and ADA-appropriate grades can easily accommodate mobility aids, strollers, and mountain bikes.

Located on the grounds of Burgess Elementary School, this federal ABA-compliant trail is fully handicapped accessible and offers many opportunities to “interact with nature,” including a wetland bog bridge, glacial boulders, and local wildlife.

This 84-acre property boasts several trails, including the Pond View Loop (0.7 miles). This handicapped-accessible trail features a picturesque rest area that overlooks the pond and nearby Heins Farm. Keep an eye out for the pond’s many residents, including ducks, herons, and spotted turtles. The parking lot boasts a designated handicapped spot.

For the full outdoor experience, stay under the stars at Wells State Park. With 60 camping spots and several ramp-accessible yurts, this campsite can accommodate many types of travelers. Whether it’s your first time pitching a tent or your fiftieth, you’ll love all the amenities Wells Park has to offer, including 12 miles of hiking trails and a picturesque lake for swimming, boating and fishing. Each yurt is equipped with bunk beds, tables and chairs, in addition to water and electricity access. Regular campsites are outfitted with a fire ring and picnic table, so you can feast on your catch of the day before roasting marshmallows at night. For those looking to truly reconnect with the outdoors, this is the ultimate experience.

If you’re a fan of history, consider anchoring your outdoor adventure weekend with a stay at Publick House. Located just a few minutes from Old Sturbridge Village, the historic Publick House Inn has stood on the Town Common for the past 230 years, serving travelers from near and far. After a long day of outdoor excursions, you’ll find there’s nothing better than relaxing in an 18th-century atmosphere with 21st-century amenities. A truly one-of-a-kind experience that you’ll only find in Sturbridge, Massachusetts.