Tag Archives: bridge

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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Amrita Island (Bourne, MA)

After spending the morning at the Cape Cod Canal, it was time for the next stop on my day trip.  The next leg of my Cape weekend tour was spent at the hidden jewel of Bourne; Amrita Island. 

To view the blog about the first leg of my Cape Cod trip check out my blog about the Cape Cod Canal.

An island in the town of Bourne, Amrita Island is one of the lesser known islands of Cape Cod.  The reason many people may not know about this island is because it looks like any other side street in the area.  The only indication there may be an island there is an inconspicuous sign you could easily miss unless you were looking for it.

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Amrita Island is connected to Cataumet (the village within Bourne where Amrita Island is located) by an ornate, albeit short, stone bridge.

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There are spectacular views from the bridge.

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But, to get the best views, you have to get off the bridge and walk around the surrounding area

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There is also an abundance of plant life and pretty trees.

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There is also a variety of wildlife on Amrita Island.  Fish, ducks and birds are abundant onthe island. The fish were swarming in a circle for some reason.

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I also met Hadley, a resident of the island.

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I will be posting the next installment of my Cape Cod trip later this weekend.  Stay tuned!

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Natural Bridge State Park (North Adams, MA)

The bridges of Western Massachusetts are not just the ones you see on the roadways. But, don’t let the name fool you.  The Natural Bridge State Park has so much more to offer.

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Before you reach the natural bridge, a brook greets you at the entrance.

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Formed through series of continental collisions, erosion and the meltwaters caused by the Ice Age, the natural marble bridge is the only one of its kind in North America.

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Deep crevices and chasms were carved through the years of erosion and warming and cooling.

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The only marble bridge in North America, the natural bridge in North Adams is located just off the The Mohawk Trail. 

Adding to the beauty of the natural bridge, the park has a waterfall.

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The Natural Bridge State Park also has impressive views of the bridge and the park it overlooks.

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There are many flowers, trees, rocks, bridges (a bridge on a bridge of all things) and even David’s Bench that give the Natural Bridge State Park a special charm.

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During our travels, we met Sasha.

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Just as you think you’ve seen all the Natural Bridge State Park has to offer there is a small park area atop the walking bridge.  Statues and other structures made from the materials mined from the one time quarry rest along the top of the lofty bridge.  It capped off a perfect visit.

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