As a New Englander by birth and choice, I revel in the change of each season. Like many who live in New England, my favorite time of year is autumn when leaves on the trees turn to blazing colors. The Last Green Valley is more than eighty percent undeveloped land. We enjoy large tracts of woods, and this region is rich in fall foliage due to the fact that deciduous trees account for the majority of cover in our forests.

During the height of summer the hills are basically two shades of green — dark green conifers and lighter green deciduous trees. Starting in September and peaking in October, the hillsides turn a range of bright colors punctuated only by small stands of dark green conifers such as white pine and hemlock. Our most common deciduous trees are maple, oak, hickory, ash, birch and beech, each with its own fall color signature. Maples are the most brilliant with bright orange, yellows and reds. Hickory, ash and birch have beautiful shades of yellow and orange, and oak trees wear shades of copper turning to brown as the season advances. By mid-November only the oak leaves remain on the trees — their brown cloaks a silent reminder of another season passing and the approach of winter.

For thirty five years, The Last Green Valley, Inc. has provided you with the perfect opportunity to explore this region during this glorious season. What began three decades ago as a single weekend of free walks and hikes is now Walktober, stretching from the Autumnal Equinox in September through early November. This year’s Walktober again provides us the opportunity to experience more than 250 guided, walks, talks, hikes, paddles, tours and events throughout The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor.

It was during Walktober that I discovered my favorite hikes on properties being preserved by land trusts. I have toured several of our local farms, walked through historic cemeteries, and learned about the history of our mill towns and hill towns. Because of Walktober, I have become truly connected to where I live and am reminded again of the wonderful variety of cultural and natural resources we enjoy. Quality of place is a primary factor in quality of life – how lucky we are to live here in The Last Green Valley!

Bill Reid, Chief Ranger (Retired), The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor