A Lovely Day in the Region

By Christopher Coyle

One can travel across the North Central region of Massachusetts along forty miles of Route 2 in less than an hour going from, say, Ayer to Athol. But, unless it’s important to reach a specific destination in as short a time as possible, why do it? North Central Massachusetts itself provides the destination for travelers seeking a relaxing, unhurried trip off the beaten path. The region lends itself well to the new slow-travel trend. Here’s a possible trip with some engaging stops.

The traveler will likely find additional places to visit along the way, perhaps saving some for next time. Arriving in the area by Route 2 from the east, stop at the Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center on Route 2 westbound in Lancaster for some ideas of places to see.

Taking the Fitchburg exit from Route 2, a slow traveler and companions may drive to Fitchburg to tour Fitchburg Art Museum. It makes a good visit for those less inclined to hiking or perhaps on a rainy day. Founded in 1925, FAM has set a goal of becoming the first area fully bilingual, English/Spanish, art museum. FAM has a section on ancient Egyptian art, standing exhibits of American photography and African art, as well as special shows dedicated to individual artists or techniques.

From Fitchburg, drive west on Route 2A with a possible meal stop at the Old Mill right off the highway on Route 140 south in Westminster. Driving further south on 140 and then west on Mile Hill Road brings the slow traveling traveler to Wachusett Mountain State Reservation in Princeton. The reservation comprises the three-thousand-acre crown jewel of the area where travelers can look out in all directions. On a clear day, the visitor may see Boston to the east, Worcester to the south, Mount Greylock way out in the Berkshires to the west, and Mount Monadnock in Jaffrey, New Hampshire, to the north.

The Wachusett summit road is open from Memorial Day weekend until the end of October. Seventeen miles of walking trails include a section of the Midstate Trail. Wachusett Mountain Ski Area operates on part of the mountain, accessible by car. Also in Princeton, find Redemption Rock, a Trustees of Reservations property. In 1676 during King Philip’s War, Native American captors released Mary Rowlandson, wife of the first minister of Lancaster, from atop the notable granite ledge later named Redemption Rock. The adventurous person could reach Wachusett Mountain from the Midstate Trail starting at the Redemption Rock parking area.

Back on 2A, travelers may continue west while keeping an eye out for area antique and specialty shops as well as numerous greenhouses andnurseries that dot the region. Arriving in Athol, Route 32 south leads to Fisher Museum at Harvard Forest in Petersham. Home to well-known beautiful dioramas, Fisher Museum includes seven that depict the changing landscape of central Massachusetts starting at the time of European colonization. Outside, a network of trails from short to lengthy beckon visitors into the research forest where they can explore and learn about the native habitat.

Returning to Athol, Route 32 north brings the slow traveler to Royalston, home to three Trustees of Reservations properties. A hike along a challenging trail down into a deep, ancient gorge reveals a 45-foot spectacular waterfall, Spirit Falls. Hiking through the 173-acre Jacobs Hill reservation through mixed species of forest in relative wilderness brings the hiker to Spirit Falls and also connects with 22-mile Tully Trail.

Also in Royalston, travelers find Doane’s Falls, a short walk from Athol Road. The striking series of waterfalls captivate with photographic opportunities in all seasons. At the foot of Doane’s Hill, travelers may decide to stay at Tully Lake Campground, operated by the Trustees as a tent-only camping adventure in a scenic and peaceful part of North Central Massachusetts.