Sunday, December 23, 2012

Scantic River State Park

After discovering there was a state park so close to my old stomping grounds where I grew up, I was very curious to see what it looked like. The last time I was in the area of Melrose I was about 16 yrs old and hoping trouble would find me.
I remembered this area much differently than it turned out to be now. This road was virtually empty when I was a kid...maybe a couple of old farms tucked into the scenery here and there. Well, like so many other things it changed big time while I wasn't looking! The old farms (looking like they are about to fall down any minute) are still there but they are surrounded by wealthy looking large homes and manicured lawns. I promise I will get some photos of those farms for a future post. I just LOVE the character of old farms, don't you?

The instant I saw the old dilapidated bridge where the trail starts, I was very interested in what that bridge was used for and where it used to go. I'm not sure I can find out those answers but that's something else I'll be looking into.

The trail itself is a challenge of wet clay and sudden slipping even in areas that look like they should be dry. I found myself wishing I had on some real hardy hiking boots instead of the sneakers that I was trying to keep dry. I'm hoping that this trail is a work in progress because to be called a state park it certainly needs a lot more work. No doubt they rely on volunteers to do the work and that as well as the economy are what I'm going to blame this trails shortcomings on.
I'm quite sure this trail is beautiful in the summer and fall because the river winds through it and there are sweet little benches stationed in various areas that look like perfect spots to sit and relax. It's got plenty of charm to spare...it's just a work in progress.

I've posted a few of the highlights on the trail but there is much more to it than what you'll see in the here. It's about 2 miles long and really has some personality...just don't forget your boots.

 
Nice little area to sit and think

Wonder where this bridge used to go...

Drops of dew glisten in the sun

You're kidding me, right??

This is passing as a bridge too? Yikes!

Scrap metal will have to go too...