Fawcett-Goodwin and Browning Family Reserves

“Owen’s Trail,” a nature trail, in orange.

Two Mousam Way Land Trust preserves — Fawcett-Goodwin and Browning — are linked here by an interesting trail system, with one-half being a well-blazed and charming nature trail (in orange on my map). As you head west, you’ll link up to a sprawling trail network for bikers and hikers on land beyond the preserve boundaries.

The Fawcett-Goodwin 0.6-mile loop trail, “Owen’s Trail,” on the southern part of the parcel, is accessed from medium-sized parking area carved out of the power line corridor, off High Street. From this lot, you’ll walk into the woods, where a loop has been blazed and dotted with thoughtful nature panels. Take time to read the info about tree and moss identifications, the “Un-named Stream, ”and other interesting sights along the trail. (Thank you to Eagle scout Owen Treadwell for helping to create this wonderful trail!)

If you choose to head northwest, rather than loop back to the parking lot, you can do a loop that passes through forest and by a little wetland. (I think this loop breaches the preserve’s boundaries, but it seems to welcome the public.) The trails in this part can be a bit confusing to follow, and there are several different kinds of trail markers at play. Additionally, the trail system connects to a sprawling trail system for bikers and bikers beyond the preserve boundaries, just to the north.

Directions:The small parking area is marked with a Mousam Way Land Trust sign. Look for it off High Street where the street crosses the power line. It’s about half a mile west from the junction with Route 4.