Mast Road Natural Area: West Loop

This route begins at the parking area along Mast Road and heads north on the Black Gum Trail. The trail quickly enters mixed forest and wetlands, crossing a small footbridge before continuing on gently rolling terrain. After a short walk, the trail meets the Old Piggery Trail, which follows a wide former farm road through low forest and wetland edges. Stay on Old Piggery Trail as it gradually bends west and reaches the Lamprey River Trail, where the route curves around the river corridor and begins trending south. At the next junction, turn right onto the Beauchesne Farm Trail and follow it briefly through open habitat to a scenic overlook above the surrounding wetlands and river floodplain. From the overlook, retrace your steps back along Beauchesne Farm Trail to the Old Piggery Trail. Turn left and follow Old Piggery Trail back to the junction with Black Gum Trail and return south to the original parking area. This easy route highlights quiet wetlands, historic landscape features, and a short riverside viewpoint, offering a relaxed walk with varied scenery close to Mast Road.