The Essex Land Trust invites the public to its largest preserve to explore its trails on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 9 a.m. Shared by Deep River and Essex, the Canfield/Meadow Woods Nature Preserve is made up of more than 300 acres of hilly, forested land with a wide variety of terrain.

Seventeen trails wind through mixed old and new growth forest, and the preserve’s many rocky outcroppings are a highlight. Much of the property is former farmland and the old fields are still delineated by a network of stone walls and roads. The remains of an old stone quarry can be found in the Deep River section.

Most of the original land was acquired through donation from Mr. and Mrs. Earl Canfield. The preserve abounds with white-tailed deer and grey and red fox as well as flocks of wild turkeys. A population of small rodents attracts hawks and owls, too.

All are welcome for this moderate hike of up to 1 ½ hours. Meet at the Book Hill Woods Road entrance in Essex. Bad weather cancels. For more information, email jgdenham@gmail.com.