Lionberger Woods

Lionberger Woods is a 43.3 acre property named to commemorate Arthur and Alene Lionberger, whose generosity has significantly contributed to allowing the Rochester Land Trust (RLT) to preserve land in Rochester. A 26.5 – acre property (originally called Haskell Woods) was donated to the RLT in 2006 by the Fordyce Properties Trust, but due to inaccessibility wasn’t opened to the public until 2016, when RLT purchased an abutting parcel.

Access the property through the town owned drainage parcel located at approximately 75 Haskell Ridge Road. Park beside the split rail fence, enter by the RLT sign and follow the left side path to the kiosk at the property entrance.

Habitats: Pine forest

History: Much of this property and the neighboring Haskell Ridge development was originally part of the Major Nathaniel Haskell Farm.

Visit: While there are a variety of trails and offshoots crossing the property (over 1.5 miles), staying to the right and climbing the hill leads to the Conservation Commission property, which has a shaded picnic table overlooking neighboring cranberry bogs.

Woodpeckers, thrushes, jays, and many more woodland species can be heard and seen throughout. Signs of deer, fox, and owl may be seen along the trails.

The main trail offers a moderate hill where a skier might pick up a little speed. Snowshoeing is also a possibility.

*Hunting and motorized vehicles are prohibited as requested by the donors.