Community Corner
Lyman's Pond and Rice Reservation
This plot of land in Westwood provides a great place for a short walk.
You don't always have to venture deep into the woods to be able to take a breath of fresh air.
Lyman's Pond and Rice Reservation makes up more than 118 acres of land in Westwood, and has several short paths to help get you from A to B without having to even get in your car.
The reservation was given to the town of Westwood as a gift from Henry Davis, Sheila Fiona and Margaret Lyman. The Senior Center, the Fisher School House (home of the Westwood Historical Society), Westwood High School and Thurston Middle School all rest on this large plot of land.
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There are several ways in which to access this spot. There's an entrance to the paths behind Westwood High School near the soccer fields and also behind Starbucks on of High Street.
Each path in the area is marked by a white square painted on trees all throughout the trail. The footpaths are pretty narrow and rocky, so if you're planning on bringing your bike, be sure to take it slow.
The path leading from behind Starbucks to behind the high school makes an excellent alternative for a peaceful walk away from traffic.
There's also plenty of wildlife in the area. As you walk through, you may notice leaves rustling around as chipmunks and squirrels collect their acorns to prepare for the upcoming cold season. Birds chirp and flutter from tree to tree, busily gathering food to bring to their young in their nests high up in the trees.
There's another small narrow walkway to the left (if coming from Starbucks, if coming from the school it would be on your right) that leads to Lyman's Pond. It gets a bit wet as you get closer to the pond so be prepared.
The reservation is perfect for jogging, taking a dog for a quick stroll, or just a spot to wander and collect your thoughts without having to go on a major trek through the woods.
Lyman's Pond has a diverse habitat, and is home of the Great Blue Heron. The area is also used by students of Westwood High School as an outdoor classroom, where students do studies on the wildlife in the area.
To view photos of areas within the Lyman's Pond and Rice Reservation, click here.
