Posted in Massachusetts
December 24, 2016
The One Park In Massachusetts That’s Unlike Any Other In The World
This place has to be one of the most unique spots in the world. The story of how the Becket Land Trust Historic Quarry and Forest came to be is absolutely amazing, and the park itself is no less enchanting.
Imagine wandering into the woods and coming face to face with vintage automobiles, old buildings, machinery and even furniture. Then, imagine you were allowed and even encouraged to explore these fascinating remains. That’s the experience you’ll have at this incredible Massachusetts preserve.
Opened in the 1860s, this quarry looks as if the laborers set down their tools one afternoon and never returned. And that’s pretty much what happened.
Mining occurred here for just about 100 years. When the Hudson-Chester company shuttered operations in the 1960s, they left all their equipment behind in the woods. Nature began to take hold of the area once again, creeping into and around old roads, buildings and massive industrial vehicles.
In 1999, a new company wanted to resume work at the quarry. Not willing to let the area to be turned into a mining operation once again, locals banded together and bought the land. It was put into a public trust, and purposefully left to become overgrown.
Today, the public can explore this fascinating place. You can investigate old cars, covered in vines and rusting under shady trees.
Markers describe the old equipment so you know what you’re looking at. Old buildings are slowly being taken back by the woods.
You never know what you might stumble upon around the next corner.
Besides the abandoned objects, the quarry itself is pretty magnificent. Giant heaps of granite boulders provide spectacular views of the Berkshires, and the area around the water is blissfully serene.
Volunteers keep the trails clear and blazed, so you won’t have to worry about wandering off track and losing your way.
The Becket Land Trust Historic Quarry is located 456 Quarry Road in Becket. It is open from sunrise to sunset. Looking for another enchanted hiking adventure in Massachusetts? Check out this easy and amazing winter hike.
