Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary — Attraction in Hampden

Great trail out in the woods. The path is not paved or really cleared, there are lots of rocks, roots and various tripping hazards so you have to be aware and watch your feet a lot.

The trail is not very scenic it's just forest and more forest, if you are looking for a scenic view try Ashley's Reservoir or Skinner State Park. But if you're looking to get away from life and be alone with your thoughts and quiet wood sounds, this is the place. The picture I attached is the typical view that you will have for maybe 80-90% of the trail.

The farther loop (Neff Loop) is quiet deep into the forest and you rarely see people pass on the trail, so be careful. Also some sections have a decent incline/decline to them, but they're very short. The trails are very well marketed with signs and markers so you really have to try and get lost, however if you stray off the trail I can imagine it's very easy to get lost if you lose the trail.

Parking is very convenient, just enter through the gate/barrier right before the intersection, there is space for maybe...

Very peaceful little Audubon bird sanctuary in south central Massachusetts. There are basically two environments, a lively little brook valley with a trail along it through hardwoods, and an oak and pitch pine forest on the shallow hill above it.

The trails are well tended, and are clear of tick brush (minimum 3’ or so cleared). The trail along the brook is does cross some watery spots, and rocks are well placed to cross (but may be slippery). Lots of roots on trail, not suitable for handicapped, but would be fine with poles.

There are may loop paths possible - simplest is a bit more than a mile, follow the brook trail until it U-turns up hill, and keep to left and downhill again when trail splits. There is a nice “split rock” outcropping suitable for kids to climb on that is part of the shortest loop.

I’m told this is a good place for cross-country skiing in winter, but I don’t have that skill or experience. But I saw a lot of trail markers high in trees marking the way. Green outgoing,...

Honestly a little bit of a heartbreak. I use to go to summer camp here (probably mid to late 90s) and it was always AMAZING. My friends and I had the best councilors that were so cool and so nature first type of people. We made awesome memories and it really cemented a respect for nature in my wild child self.

Coming back I was a little upset to see buildings gone and things looking unkempt. The trails were the same awesome trails and Split Rock was extremely rewarding to summit. My son and I had a blast hiking the trails. Bring a hat and bug spray. Also if you're up for it, wade in the streams and have fun with the...