Wendell

Mount Grace State Forest, on route 78 near the New Hampshire border, this 1,689-acre forest includes a picnic area, table and fireplaces. There are streams for fishing and trails for hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Hunting is also allowed. The summit of Mt. Grace rises to an elevation of 1,617 feet, making it the second-highest peak in Massachusetts east of the Connecticut River. A trail beginning on the west side of the mount, near the administration building, provides a 1 1/2 hour hike to the top. A fire observation tower is atop the summit. Call (978) 544-3939 for further information.

Wendell State Forest, features the Ruggles Pond recreation area, which can be reached by taking Montague Road from the center of Millers Falls, Wendell Depot Road from Route 2A in Orange, or Cooleyville Road from Route 202 in Shutesbury. The area features a large ball field, picnic areas,mountain biking trails, swimming and fishing in Ruggles Pond, and groomed cross-country skiing trails. The 7,900-acre forest also includes Wickett Pond, which has a boat ramp, Mormon Hollow Brook and offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, fishing and hunting. Several dirt roads crisscross the forest.

Metacomet-Monadnock Trail, is a marked interstate footpath linking Connecticut to Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire. The track goes into Wendell, Erving, Northfield, Warwick and Royalston. In Wendell, the trail runs from the Ruggles Pond parking area inside Wendell State Forest and follows into Erving. White rectangular blazes mark the trail along which can be found scenic vistas. Call (978) 249-3849 for a trail guide.

Wendell Old Home Days is usually held the second weekend in August in the center of town, featuring local music, crafts, games and food. Call (978) 544-7352 for further information.