Trail Tour

This section of the proposed New England Trail would follow the Robert Frost Trail over the highlands of Mount Toby  (part of the Metacomet Ridge) then northeast into the metamorphic hills of central New England. 

W-11.0 Mount Toby

Mount Toby (1269') is considered to be the one of the most biologically diverse plant habitats in New England. Nearly every major tree species in Massachusetts is represented on the mountain, as well as 42 of 45 possible types of indigenous ferns, and several rare orchids. One of the most unusual mountains in the area, Mount Toby is composed of "pudding stone"--also known as conglomerate--a sedimentary stone composed of cemented bits of gravel, stone and sand. Much of the mountain is part of the Mount Toby Demonstration Forest. The Robert Frost Trail crosses the highest peaks of Mount Toby. There is a fire tower on the summit, and a side path from the Robert Frost Trail leads to Roaring Falls, one of Massachusetts' most attractive waterfalls. 

W-11.1 Cranberry Pond
A scenic kettle pond located on the northeast side of Mount Toby; a popular fishing and canoeing spot.  

W-11.3 Montague Wildlife Management Area

From Cranberry Pond to Ruggles Pond, the Robert Frost Trail passes through the Montague Wildlife Management Area. Features include ledges, steep hills,  deep woodland, cascading brooks, and the Pigpen, an enormous natural rock enclosure. Dry Hill, a high point, offers views to the west.  

W-11.4 Ruggles Pond and Wendell State Forest 

Ruggles Pond, a highland lake, is a popular swimming and picnic area. Nearby are rocky overlooks, a backpacker's shelter, and a small waterfall. From Ruggles Pond, the proposed New England Trail would follow the Metacomet-Monadnock Trail north. 

Resources

Appalachian Mountain Club Berkshire Chapter
Metacomet-Monadnock Trail
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
Guide to the Robert Frost Trail  
NPS brochure for National Scenic Trail proposal
U.S. Congress New England National Scenic Trail Designation Act
The Nature Conservancy--Mount Toby sanctuary
Mount Toby Ecosystem
Geology of the northern Metacomet Ridge region
The Valley Land Fund
The Kestrel Trust
Montague Wildlife Management Area
Wendell State Forest 
Quabbin to Cardigan Conservation Collaborative
Franklin Land Trust
Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust
North Quabbin Woods project
North Quabbin Regional Landscape Partnership

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