www.bobgiven.com
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Ward Reservation
On a cold, but remarkably clear day in Massachusetts after a particularly snowy winter I ventured
to a nearby location that I recently heard about and checked out the views from the highest point in
Essex County. Although the weather conditions were not conducive to hiking trails on foot, I wanted
to take the opportunity with today's crystal clear blue skies to see for myself the views that maximum
visibility had to offer. I am definitely going back in the spring. There is an arrangement of solstice
stones on the summit buried under the snow and a "quaking" bog that was frozen that I missed.
Feb 23, 2011 - Andover, North Andover, Massachusetts
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(Click on any picture to view the larger detailed picture.)
Up the road from the parking lot I decided to cross this snow covered
hill instead of walking around on the trail. It was windy and cold, and
the snow was about 18 inches deep, however it had a thick crust from
the previous days thaw and refreeze, and I was mostly able to walk on top.
Once across the hill and through a few trees I follow what looks like a
road toward Holt Hill.
On Holt Hill summit there's an arrangement of solstice stones but only
the center piece is sticking up above the snow. I'll come back when the
song has melted.
Standing on the center piece I turn and face south. About 20 miles away
I see the tall buildings in Boston. It is a very clear day with only a little
haze so I could see some good detail.
Behind me was a fire watch tower, and a comms tower.
To the west of the towers was a covered reservoir, I'm guessing
for water.
Looking down the hill again back towards Boston.
On my return I decided to skip going over the hill from whence
I came and opted to follow the trail around to the south.
The road was a bit slippery as the melt from the previous days
had frozen hard again.
The woods were quiet. I expected to see more squirrels and
birds but it was still very cold.
Ward Reservation is made up of meadows, pastures, forest and
ponds. Very scenic...
Along the roads are manicured rock walls and fences, and these
steps
This park is part of the Bay Circuit Trail and a popular place for hikers,
snowshoers, and cross-country skiers.