The Linkel Property is a beautiful woodland of maples, oaks, shagbark hickories, and white pines. A stream runs along the edge of the property and small wetlands full of cinnamon and sensitive ferns are scattered through the forest. A stone bridge crosses the stream and is a perfect spot to enjoy the brook and quiet woods. Linkel Woods connects to the Town Forest trail.

Land Protection History

John and Angela Linkel donated the land to Nashoba Conservation Trust in 1998. The Linkels were motivated to donate their land because they wanted to ensure the forest and wetlands on

their property were conserved. The eight-acre Linkel donation combined with an abutting seven-acre parcel owned by NCT to create a 15-acre preserve.

Trail Description

The Linkel Woods Red Trail is marked with red T.O.P markers. The trail is an easy hike through a hardwood forest of maples, oaks, and white pines. It begins near a small brook off Elm Street and heads northwest through the forest towards the brook. Cross over a lovely stone bridge and follow the red TOP signs on trees along the trail. Continue along the edge of Altali’s and into a small wetland of cinnamon ferns. The trail follows along a stone wall, bears to the left and intersects with a trail leading to a private residence. DO NOT TAKE THIS TRAIL. Remain on the Red Trail to reach the Shirley Street entrance.

Trail Mileage

From the trail head to Shirley Street is .5 miles.

Directions

From Pepperell Town Hall take Elm Street. Follow Elm Street for 1.2 miles until you see the sign for Altali’s. Parking is along Elm St. The trail head is about 100 feet north of the Altali sign. The GPS coordinates for the street parking area are: Latitude 42.64944; Longitude -71.59731.