Walking around Freshwater Farms Reserve is like taking a stroll through a Thomas Hardy novel. Birdsong erupts from every bush. Trees shade the path at every turn. Doe-eyed cows look at you as you pass, grazing in the nearby pasture.
All in all, this is a beautiful nature trail to walk. It is easy to access, well-maintained, and has lots of signage to educate you about the surrounding area. It is not a loop trail, so be prepared to double back once you reach the end. Sadly, they do not allow dogs, which is my only qualm. Then again, since it's a nature reserve, this is understandable. The trail itself is flat and wide, making it easy to access. I would recommend bringing sunscreen and mosquito repellent, however as the tall grass in the area most certainly harbors tiny, winged vampires. However, the views of the old pastureland are breathtaking. The trail itself runs parallel to the slough, so it's good to have a camera at the ready for some shots of the riparian side.
Stop in and get some local honey or goat's milk soap at the country store on the way out. It's good for treating oneself for having lugged one's butt off the couch to walk in nature. read more