The Mt. Lebanon Woods offers many places to observe wetland birds, painted turtles and small animals. A trail loops around 54 acres of woodlands and wetlands. Enjoy the tranquility of the small farm pond or explore a large maple swamp adjacent to the trail. Green Herons, painted turtles, minks, and other wildlife can be seen in the swamp. The rich soils on the property support large sugar maples and shagbark hickories. This is a place to slow down and fully enjoy the natural world.

Land Protection History

Erik Stromsted, one of the original founders of Nashoba Conservation Trust, donated 54 acres on Mt. Lebanon Street to the Trust over a 24-year period. Erik donated the first parcel of 17.5 acres in 1973 and a final 2 acres in 1997. Erik planned to develop a small portion of his property and donated the land surrounding his house and a subdivision

to ensure that most of the forest and wetlands in the area were conserved and enjoyed by the public.

Trail Description

The West Trail begins on Mt. Lebanon Street near the NCT sign. It loops around the base of Mt. Lebanon and winds through a forest of oaks, sugar maples and hickories. It passes a large wetland offering views of herons, turtles and many songbirds. The trail continues past the wetland to an intersection with Birch Hill Drive. Turn right up the road and then left through a grassy area that follows Mt. Lebanon St. back to the trailhead.

Trail Mileage

The West Trail is 1.2 miles; the North Trail loop is .38 miles.

Directions

From Pepperell Town Hall take Route 113 west for 1.5 miles to the second left onto Mt. Lebanon Street. Go approximately 2 miles to where Reed Street intersects Mt. Lebanon and take a sharp left. Look for NCT sign on left. Park along the road. The trail begins about 50 ft. to right of sign The GPS coordinates for the parking area are: Latitude 42.648077; Longitude -71.610309