In this Issue
February 2005

NORDIC NOMAD
Kermit extends kind offer for nature lovers
By Tim Kane

Tim Kane

SNOW LOVER—Kermit Eaton of West Main Street, Brookfield, snowshoes after a recent snowstorm on trails he created.

Maybe it’s Kermit Eaton’s warm heart that melted all the snow in December and January.

The owner of a large parcel of land with an impressive network of trails at 13 West Main St. has generously decided to open them up for public use by appointment only.

I had the opportunity to tour Kermit’s property in late January and found his 40 acres to be a virtual oasis of opportunity for nature lovers. Kermit, a California transplant, created about five inter-connecting woodland trails himself over the past 13 years that he has lived in Brookfield.

The trails of varying ability levels traverse through several different ecosystems running down gradient from his four large open fields to the Quaboag River and train tracks.

The public can access the trails via a right-of-way near the top of Lower River Road where it intersects with Route 148. There’s a 6 x 6 pole there designating the trail head.

An open field on Kermit Eaton's land.

Kermit sincerely hopes the public uses his private property for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing. Absolutely no motorized vehicles are allowed, however.

The only requirement for trail users—besides recreating there in a safe, respectful manner—is to call ahead and reserve their time on the trails. Kermit can be reached at 508-867-9058. Leave a message if he’s not around.

Thanks Kermit!

Guide to Area Cross Country Ski Centers