Mine Hill Preserve
A place of Natural, Geologic and Industrial Heritage
Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, Mine Hill is the site of a 19th century iron mine and furnace complex. The Roxbury Land Trust acquired the 360-acre preserve in 1978. The significant stone and brick structural remains of the furnace complex have been restored and stabilized. These historic structures are located 0.2 miles from where you stand. At the complex, you will also find three groups of interpretive signs which explain Mine Hill’s history, the iron-making process and Mine Hill’s impact on the region.
A trail loop (blue blazes) runs along the perimeter of the preserve with a distance of 3.5 miles. Clockwise, this trail ascends up the Donkey Trail and passes by two mine tunnels and a series of grated air shafts, which now serve as entryways to several bat hibernacula. The trail then begins its descent past an abandoned quarry. It eventually joins a dirt road (Hodge Road) and ends at the furnace complex.
For a shorter hike, there is an easy trail around the reservoir located about 100 yards from the base of the Donkey Trail. This trail begins at the base of the reservoir, crosses over the earthen dam and bridge, loops around the reservoir and then rejoins the Donkey Trail.
Marker can be reached from Mine Hill Road ½ mile from Hodge Road.
Courtesy hmdb.org
