With springtime upon us, you might be looking for things to do outdoors in order to enjoy the encroaching warmer weather. One of my favorite activities has always been to walk the trails through Blackwood Forest. They’re some of our town’s most beautiful attractions. The start of my favorite trail—the “F” trail—is tucked away behind the hills that line the edges of Rookery, so you might need to do a bit of legwork to actually find it.

If you’re a fan of isolation like me, you’ll love taking a casual stroll down the trail. There’s nothing better than feeling the soft dirt trying to devour your feet with every step. If you panic, you’ll just sink deeper. The only way to keep going is by accepting you’re not in control. Once you cede your fate to the forest, it will allow you to pass unharmed. We like to think we’ve conquered nature with our cities and suburban sprawl, but nature is far more patient than us. It knows how to bide its time.

For years, the people of Emerson Valley have whispered about the many poor, unfortunate souls lost to the shadows of Blackwood Forest. They aren’t really lost, though. They still wander the forest, far off the beaten paths. Listen carefully and you can hear their lilting voices carried on the cool breeze. If you recognize their song, just close your eyes as tight as you can and pray that the tickle on the back of your neck isn’t from their stolen breath.

I’m always amazed at the wonders our little slice of Eden has to offer. The natural charm of places like Blackwood Forest are what gives Emerson Valley that cozy, rustic feeling that you can’t find anywhere else in the modern world. So, next time you’re looking for a nice, relaxing activity that’s fun for the whole family, head on down to the Blackwood Forest hiking trails. Maybe I’ll see you there!

– Martin Fitzgerald, Activities, Emerson Valley Gazette