Frolic in the field of wildflowers, then listen for the splash of frogs at the adjacent lily pond.
Having once served both as pasture land and as part of a golf course for the Nichewaug Inn, today North Common Meadow is woven into the rural fabric and character of Petersham Center. Ground-nesting birds hide in the upper meadow grasses while wildflowers burst into color in the lower meadow. Off of North Main Street, the historic Law Office of Aaron Brooks, an influential supporter of open space in the late 19th century, overlooks a working hayfield.
Follow a trail system that begins at the law office, winds for a half-mile down through the meadow, around a small lily-covered pond, and out onto East Street. The Buell Woods Trail—a short walk south, across the street from the Meadow’s East Street entrance—provides a forested connection to the Brooks Woodland Preserve, or you can take a short spur trail north into Roaring Brook Tract of Brooks Woodland Preserve.
FREE to all. Open sunrise to sunset.
22 North Main Street and 27 East Street
Petersham, MA 01366
Email: info@thetrustees.org
Get directions on Google Maps.
From the Town Hall in Petersham Center, either travel 0.4 mi. down East St. and park along the road at the entrance, or travel north 0.1 mi. on Main St. (Rt. 32) and park along the road in front of the historic Brooks Law Office.
We recommend that you take a photo of the map on your phone so you can refer to it during your visit, or download a trail map before you head out.
Once pasture for livestock, the property later was part of a golf course for the Nichewaug Inn, which operated on the Common through the first half of the 20th century.
Property Acquisition History
Original acreage purchased in 1975 with funds given anonymously. Additional land purchased in 1978.
Nice for a quick walk with my dog that is not very strenuous. When you are done, stop by the general store for a snack.
– Nicki2259, Trip Advisor
