Posted in Massachusetts July 08, 2016 by

There’s A Little Slice Of Paradise Hiding Right Here In Massachusetts… And You’ll Want To Visit

This place is a hidden natural refuge that is absolutely bursting with scenic spots. And you’d never expect to find it right in the heart of the town of Athol! Read on to find out why the Alan E. Rich Environmental Park is an unexpected natural treasure that you should definitely visit this season.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Nestled alongside the Millers River in Athol, the Alan E. Rich Environmental Park is a beautiful stretch of conservation land in the middle of town..
Flickr/Rene Rivers
The park is covered with beautiful native plants. There are plenty of snug nooks with picnic tables and benches where you can relax and appreciate the peace and quiet.
Flickr/Rene Rivers
Take the park's short loop trail to see the complete collection of gorgeous flora.
A scenic train trestle spans the Millers River, and watching the locomotives chug by is pretty cool.
Flick/Liz West
Feel like splashing around? The park is the beginning of the Millers River Bluetrail, which is a 6-mile, easy water course that’s perfect for paddling with the family.
Flickr/MOTT
Bring your canoes, kayaks or fishing rods to fully enjoy the clean waters of the park.
In the warmer months, the park is chock full of swooping butterflies and glittering dragonflies.
MOTT.com
The park is also home to Cass Meadow, a beautiful expanse of tall grasses and flowers that is straight out of a storybook.
If you're up for a bit of a river adventure, you can actually paddle into Orange from the boat launch in this park.
TripAdvisor/Monica V.
The trip is only 5 miles, and will take you past some of the prettiest scenery in the area.
TripAdvisor/Monica V.

10 Main Street, Athol, MA
(978) 249-2496

Find the park on the west end of Athol Center, on the north side just before the bridge. The park is open to visitors:

Tuesday 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Thursday 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Have you visited this park? Do you have any other favorite slices of paradise in Massachusetts? Please let us know. If you’re looking for another natural escape, be sure to check out this lush, hidden palace in the heart of a busy Massachusetts city.