Like everybody else these days, I am 100% devoted to my daily walks. Since some of my go-to spots have been placed off limits due to coronavirus concerns, such as Audubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary in South Natick and the path around Wellesley College’s Lake Waban, I’ve taken the opportunity to get out of my trails rut and find new (to me) spots.
Coolidge Woods, with its Eisenmenger trail and many criss-crossing paths was a wonderful spot to hike. I accessed the area at Coolidge Field, near Natick Center. There is parking on Chester St. and Sheridan St. You can’t miss the entrance to Coolidge Woods.
There are many, many ways to hike that area. I opted for an out and back route that took me from Coolidge Field, along the pasture bordering the former Winona Farm in South Natick, to Nokamis Way, and back, a two-mile round trip route. Come along with me for a nice and easy hike.
Coolidge Woods, Natick is the type of trail that’s cared for by its regulars. Fallen branches aren’t allowed to clutter the path. They’re moved carefully to the side.
A sturdy stick house, nicely situated just above a babbling brook. Two child-sized plastic chairs inside are there for young hikers who could use a break.
I followed the blue arrow, affixed to the old stump.
There are many moss-covered rock formations and stone walls throughout the woods. Signage asks that you not trample the moss.
When you see a restoration area sign at the fork in the path, look for the wooden bridge to the left. A hard right will take you up a set of railroad tie steps, which is way I chose.
Additional railroad ties descend the other side of the gentle hill, leading across a wooden bridge. A swampy area is to the left. A few wood frogs were making their presence known.
If you’re looking for your razor scooter, it’s in Coolidge Woods.
Another choice. I stayed to the left, following the red arrow..
The next bridge spans a small stream. There’s seating if hikers would like to take a moment to forest bathe. Take a look at the celestial art that decorates the bridge.
Rock walls criss cross throughout the woods. After crossing the bridge, I kept the rock wall to my right.
Nobody is going to disturb the animals anymore in this pasture. For 115 years the land was part of Winona Farm. The 14-acre property was sold to St. Benedict Classical Academy in 2019.
Looks like woodpeckers enjoyed many excellent meals at this spot before their favorite restaurant finally fell down.
After walking with Winona farm to my left, I soon came to Nokamis Way. I turned around and backtracked to my Coolidge Field starting point.
Coolidge Field, Natick. Back where I started from.
I grew up playing in those woods!