With 2,000 acres of protected forest, Tillinghast Pond Management Area offers serenity and natural beauty that rank among the best in southern New England. On this hike, we'll take in all the great views of the pond. But we'll also spend a little time talking about the property's active hayfields and a recent timber harvest. Both initiatives help demonstrate The Nature Conservancy's commitment to managing the property as part of a larger working landscape.
The hike will be 2.5 miles long, combining the Logger's Trail and the Pond Trail. Other highlights on the route include a historic cemetery, a beaver dam, and an observation platform on the pond.
The trails are dry, but sturdy shoes are recommended, as the terrain is somewhat uneven on sections of the Logger's Trail. There will be benches along the way if you need a break, or if just want to stop for a minute to take a drink or watch the dragonflies.
Find out what's happening in East Greenwichfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
This walk is co-sponsored by the West Greenwich Land Trust, as part of Rhode Island Land Trust Days. Everyone is invited to explore the very special places that land trusts are protecting, “just outside your door.”
We'll meet at the Plain Road parking lot. Directions: From I-95, take Exit 5B - Route 102 North. Follow Route 102 for 3 miles, past the West Greenwich Town Hall. Turn left onto Plain Meeting House Road, follow for 4 miles, passing Leyden's Tree Farm and the Wickaboxet Management Area. Turn right at the next intersection, onto Plain Road. Follow Plain Road for 1/2 mile to the parking lot on the right.
