Tantiusques

Tantiusques, or 'to a black deposit between two hills' in Nipmuck, is a 57-acre reservation preserving the site of early New England graphite mining operations. Careful observers can still see mine cuts, ditches, and tailings piles. A meandering but moderately strenuous 1.5-mile loop trail connects to a spur trail that passes through the adjacent Leadmine Wildlife Management Area and ends at the Crowd Site, foundations of a former miner's house and barn (circa 1850). Mountain biking permitted on designated trails. Seasonal hunting subject to all state and town laws. Visit year-round, sunrise to sunset. Allow one hour minimum. Free admission.