Walking Event: Fall Foliage Walks and Potluck and Pie Social

Bedford, incorporated in 1729, has the distinction of possessing the oldest complete flag, which was carried to Concord's North Bridge by Minuteman Nathaniel Page on April 19, 1775. Bedford strives to preserve open space, and currently has 600 acres of protected land for public enjoyment and the protection of natural resources. Bedford is the terminus of the Minuteman Rail Trrail, which was built over 15 years ago, and is now the country's most used rail trail. Both the 5km and 10km walk routes traverse Bedford town center, pass the newly constructed Railroad Depot Park, and continue to Hartwell Town Forest, consisting of 118 acres originally owned by William Hartwell in 1666, and now conservation land with an extensive trail system. The 10km walk route continues on a natural dirt rail trail to visit Fawn Lake. The 12 acre lake, once a destination for vacationing Bostonians, has a number of surrounding trails. Both walk routes are on paved sidewalks and natural, relatively flat walk paths in the conservation areas, and have an AVA rating of 1.5, suitable for strollers but not wheelchairs.