Today, I want to take a moment to talk about my favorite place on Wellesley campus. People who read my first blog post will know: I love walking the Lake Waban trail, and you will too.
I’ve chosen this week to devote a blog post to Waban because the leaves have started to change, making this one of the best times to walk the lake trail (I would argue there are no truly bad times). Yes, I’m going to turn into one of the weird old white people who thinks “leaf peeping” qualifies as a hobby. I’ve accepted this about myself. If you’re on campus, I highly recommend taking a walk around the lake. If you do, here are a few tips:
At a little over two miles, the Lake Waban trail is manageable in under an hour. It makes a nice study break on the weekend, or a healthy excuse to procrastinate. Along the way, you’ll walk along a boardwalk crossing a patch of wetlands, through a old forest, alongside a lawn full of elaborate topiary, and likely past a few swans (don’t get too close, they are surprisingly bitey–especially around nesting season!).
If you’re missing your own pupper, walk around the lake on the weekend. Townspeople walk their dogs around the lake all the time and they’re very willing to let you pet them.
It’s important to wear a sturdy pair of sneakers and watch your step. On the first day of classes I tried to walk the trail in flip-flops, caught my foot on one of the protruding roots, and–true story–I think one of my toes is still a lil’ crooked.
Keep an eye out for wildlife. In addition to swans, I’ve spotted herons, a skunk, and even a (harmless!) garden snake.
Maybe don’t try the trail directly after a heavy rainstorm. I’ve had to hop around some puddles that were closer to ponds.
Pause to take pictures, especially when the sun’s out. The reflection of the fall foliage in the water is particularly pretty (see: the photo up top). It can also help you stop and take notice of how the leaves change.
Put the earbuds away for at least part of the trail. I’m terrible about following this advice myself, but when I do, I always appreciate hearing the birdsong and the water lapping at the shore.
In short, you should definitely give the Lake Waban walking trail a shot, even if you’re just visiting campus as a prospective student!