Features

East Over Reservation is a reminder of Rochester’s rural character. The reservation was once owned by Eastover Farm, which still operates next door. One of East Over Reservation’s most notable – and beautiful – features is its stone walls, which stretch for two miles along the property’s edges.

This property truly shines in fall: the trails are awash in autumn colors, with pops of golden yellow from the barns at the neighboring farm. But don’t miss a trip here in summer, too, when you can stop in at the farm for some fresh produce.

From Hiller Road, you can walk along a stone wall on a trail easement through Eastover Farm to the shores of Leonard’s Pond.

Trails

From the parking area on Clapp Road, follow the stone walls to find a trail that loops through East Over Reservation’s fields and forest. This is an easy, scenic walk that you can enjoy in about an hour. (Download trail map)

As you cross the grassy field, look for one of two left offshoots that will take you onto additional trails that eventually lead to Hiller Road. Most of the land along this road is private property, but there is a trail easement on the east side where you can walk to the edge of Leonard’s Pond.

To return to the parking area from Hiller Road, turn right on Mary’s Pond Road, where you can pick up the main loop trail again.

Habitats & Wildlife

With fields, forest, and freshwater habitats, East Over Reservation is home to a variety of species. Grassland birds particularly enjoy this place: look for bobolink in the hayfields, and blue-winged warbler and Eastern towhee in the grass. Cottontail rabbits and meadow voles also scamper through the fields, so get down low to search for tracks in the soil and snow.

Property Owned By

The Trustees

The Trustees preserve, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts.