Walk where we tap trees, pick up maple syrup, and enjoy the outdoors.
11-4 on Sunday, March 5, 12, 19, and 26, 2023.
Since you’ve been inside staying warm this winter, it’s easy to come down with house-atosis. Yes, I made that name up. But it feels real. And the cure is simple: get out of the house and into fresh air.
March is sugaring season in Massachusetts. To celebrate, we’re opening our doors every Sunday in March from 11-4 pm so you can see how we make the sweet stuff. And while you’re in town, take a March Across Hardwick!
Grab your boots and come to Hardwick. Start at the Hardwick Sugar Shack and pick up your maple syrup at the open-air, pop-up shop at 572 Jackson Road in Hardwick Massachusetts. Enjoy the property and take a walk in the back trail. We will be here from 11-4 on Sunday, March 5, 12, 19, and 26, 2023.
Then head on over to see where else in town we tap trees. Start with the East Quabbin Land Trust at Mandell Hill. This is an amazing spot with a view of Mt. Wachusett and a bird watching landing that’s great for a picnic. See if you can spot the lines of tubing connecting the maple trees together when you first start out in the parking lot.
When you arrive at Mandell Hill, use this map to follow a lovely trail that meanders through the meadow and into the woods. It’s a circular path which will lead you right back where you started. This is a walk Joe and I take at least once a week. And it’s one of our favorite spots in town for sunrises and sunsets.
Next, head on down to Moose Brook Preserve, also part of the East Quabbin Land Trust. There’s a place to park right off of Brook road where the trail starts. Here’s the map.
A couple of things to know before venturing forth at Moose Brook. First, Brook Road is small, dirt road that’s a little rough around the edges at times. Second, the hike goes up a steep hill. So, be prepared. If you’re looking for an easier jaunt, park at the intersection of Taylor Hill Road and Brook Road. You’ll actually see our sugaring lines here, weaving through the woods and running over Moose Brook. Right across the street from our lines, you’ll see a yellow metal gate. This is the start of an easy walk with a nice reward when you finish. At the end of the trail, you’ll notice a small hill. This is the tailings from when they drilled the Quabbin Reservoir aqueduct. When you make it to the top of that pile, you’re rewarded with a great view of the pond.
I’m a fan of the Land Trust here in town. Not only does it help with maple production and preserve the land, it gives us so much joy to walk the many paths. While you’re in town, check out all the Land Trust walks here.
Please note that although we will have a pop-up shop from 11-4 on Sundays in March, we do not normally have a retail store. If you need some syrup, you can order online, or pick it up locally at Mimi’s Coffee House, Petersham Country Store, Country Gourmet, Hardwick Farmer’s Coop, or Rose32 Bread. At Mimi’s, Rose32, and Petersham’s Country Store you can also grab lunch.
Use this handy-dandy map to help navigate your day.
The March Across Hardwick is a sure cure for house-atosis, which we are all suffering from at present. Enjoy your day welcoming in the Spring!
Hardwick Sugar Shack 