Category Archives: creek

Winsor Dam, Quabbin Reservoir (Belchertown, MA)

Named after Frank Winsor, the chief engineer of the construction project, the Winsor Dam section of the Quabbin Reservoir is a mecca for nature lovers, outdoors people and anyone who just wants to get out for a walk along the largest inland body of water in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

If there is one word that best describes the Winsor Dam it would be peaceful.

The easy to moderate walking trails are surrounded by rolling hills and crystal blue water

I missed the foliage season.  But, you can still see the colors peaking from the tree tops.

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The staff at the Quabbin Reservoir use these boats as part of their gull harassment program to limit the pollutants from the birds.

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Located about a half an hour from Springfield, MA and an hour and a half west of Boston, MA, Quabbin Reservoir supplies water to three towns west of the reservoir and acts as the backup supply for three other towns.  There was a seasonal fall breeze during my visit which created pretty ripples on the water.

Quabbin Reservoir is expansive (it has an area more than 38 and a half miles).  It is separated by different dams and sections.  There is a pretty walking bridge that you can use to visit some of the other areas.   There are some great views from the bridge.

The distance between dams are more than a mile.  So, it is often a good idea to drive to the different parts of the reservoir.

One of the many great things about the area is that after you cross the bridge there are trails and a creek which people use to fish.  I got my first two ticks of the season taking these photos, so you’re welcome!

The water is green in some places and it is so clear you can see the trout and other fish that inhabit the water.

There are also a variety of bird life at Quabbin Reservoir.  I caught these titmouse on the trail (ok I laughed a little when I wrote that)

Dogs aren’t allowed at Quabbin reservoir.  I did see one dog that was “in training”, though.

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Callahan State Park (Framingham, MA)

If you have a dog or if you are a pooch lover like I am and you live in the Massachusetts area, then you must make a trip out to Callahan State Park in Framingham, MA.  In fact, they should rename it Canine State Park.

When I arrived at the park, shortly before 9 on a Saturday morning, the fairly ample parking lot was already almost full.  It did not take long to find some cute canines to photograph.  I had more trouble deciding which dogs to photograph.

Casey wanted to get an extra close up photo.

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Lucky’s dad used a ball to get his attention.

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Luna looked right at the camera for me.

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Shelby wasn’t sure if he should play with his ball or pose for me.

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Finn, an Australian cattle breed mix, wanted to say hi.  Right after I took this photo, he ran up to me and snuggled with me.

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Heboo dressed for the seasonably chilly weather with a sweater.

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Ella gave me a big smile for her photo.

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Duke (on your left) and Pete (on your right) were busy looking at their mom/walker.

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Gracie looked sharp!

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This guy was  a great poser!

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Leaves carpeted most of the trails and the foliage was not at its peak.  But, there were still so many pretty views.

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There is lots of open land for dogs to play or run around on.

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There is a creek that runs across the park

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It began to rain, only for a few minutes, when I was at the creek.  It stopped just after I get a few shots of the rain making ripples on the water.

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Callahan State Park also has a pond.

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There is a little island in the middle of the pond.

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This rock caught my eye.

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The dogs went in for swim and one of them even retrieved a stick.

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The park has a circular path which is great for joggers and anyone who wants to take a leisurely walk.  The Greater Framingham Running Club held a 5k/10k run the day I was there.

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The runner in blue and yellow waved to me.  Who said runners aren’t friendly?

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There are so many things you can do at Callahan State Park.  This radio plane enthusiast took his plane out for a spin.

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This father and son their bikes for a ride.

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