I finally visited one of Mansfield’s newest preserves, the Simpson-Wood Preserve on Route 89 across the road from the Mt. Hope Park.  It is an easy 2 mile trail among 114 acres of woods with some beautiful ledges and stonewalls.  There are a couple of “alternate routes” that skirt slight inclines if you prefer strictly level hiking.  [...]

I went the woods because it rains like everyday lately and I had to get in to the woods.  I visited 2 local  parks,  Fenton-Ruby Park in Willington and  Mansfield Hollow State Park in Mansfield.   I was greeted by rain & overcast skies but a fair amount of green given the lack of sunshine we've expereinced in April and May so far this year.  [...]