Edible Wild Plants Walk at Prouty Woods Community Forest

Prouty Woods Community Forest | Littleton, MA | May 18, 2025, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

A photo of Russ Cohen presenting winged shining sumac fruit to a group at a 2017 event at Westport Town Farm in Westport, Massachusetts.

Russ Cohen presents winged shining sumac fruit at a past event at Westport Town Farm in Westport, MA. Photo courtesy of Russ Cohen.

Littleton, Massachusetts, and surrounding communities are home to over 80 species of edible wild plants, some of which are more nutritious and/or flavorful than their cultivated counterparts. These include native species, like Spicebush and Carrion Flower; non-native weeds, like Chicory and Burdock; and invasive species, like Dame’s Rocket and Japanese Knotweed.

Join Russ Cohen, author of the book Wild Plants I Have Known…and Eaten, for a two-hour ramble through Prouty Woods Community Forest to learn about at least 18 species of edible wild plants.

Keys to identifying each species will be provided, along with information on the edible portion(s), season(s) of availability, and preparation methods, as well as guidelines for safe, ethical, and environmentally responsible foraging.

Who Should Participate?

This moderate hike requires participants to be in good physical health and capable of:

Walking up to 1.5 miles over uneven terrain
Navigating rocks, roots, and other natural obstacles
Managing sustained inclines of up to 10% grade

What to Bring

Long pants and appropriate clothing (hat, comfortable hiking boots or shoes)
Insect repellent (DEET or similar recommended for ticks and mosquitoes)
Water and snacks (if desired)
Medically necessary items (EpiPen, inhaler, etc.)

Important Notes

Children of all ages are welcome, but must be supervised due to the challenging terrain.
Arrive 10–15 minutes early at the designated parking lot. Attendees will meet at the Wilderness Road trailhead in front of the white barn.

Learn More and Get Directions

To learn more about Prouty Woods Community Forest, visit our Conservation Successes web page. Registrants are encouraged to download a trail map and GPS directions to the parking lot in advance. Parking is located in the dirt lot behind 32 Foster St. Additional parking is available at the Wilderness Road trailhead in front of the white barn.

Register

This event is offered as part of the annual Hidden Treasures Festival of Nature, Culture & History produced by the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area.