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Coggshall Park is a 55-acre municipal park located in Fitchburg, Massachusetts.

It features a pond, walking trails, and recreational facilities.

Visual Characteristics

The park's landscape is characterized by mature deciduous trees, primarily oak and maple, providing significant canopy cover. The central feature is Mirror Lake, a body of water approximately 10 acres in size, with a shoreline composed of a mix of gravel and mown grass. Several granite outcroppings are present throughout the park. The park includes a stone pavilion and a playground structure.

Location & Access Logistics

Coggshall Park is situated approximately 2.5 miles south of Fitchburg's city center. Access is via Wonderland Road, which connects to Route 12. Parking is available in a designated lot off Wonderland Road, with capacity for approximately 50 vehicles. The Fitchburg RTA bus route 16 stops at the intersection of Wonderland Road and John Fitch Highway, a 0.5-mile walk to the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established in 1918 through a donation by the Coggshall family. The land was historically part of a larger agricultural estate. Mirror Lake is a man-made pond, created by damming a small stream that flows through the property. The surrounding vegetation is a temperate deciduous forest ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include walking the 1.5-mile perimeter trail around Mirror Lake. Fishing is permitted in Mirror Lake, with a valid Massachusetts fishing license. The park contains a playground area for children. Picnicking is possible at designated tables near the pavilion.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located near the main parking area and the stone pavilion. Shaded areas are abundant due to tree cover. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the park. No on-site food vendors operate within the park; nearest facilities are located along John Fitch Highway.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon offers optimal lighting conditions due to the angle of the sun. The months of May through October provide the most favorable weather for outdoor activities. Mirror Lake is accessible year-round; ice fishing is possible during winter months when conditions permit.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the park's stone pavilion was constructed using stones sourced from the original Fitchburg train station. The park is known for its population of resident mallard ducks on Mirror Lake.

Nearby Landmarks

• Fitchburg Art Museum (1.8km Northwest)
• Rollstone Boulder (2.1km North)
• Fitchburg State University (2.3km North)
• Mount Wachusett Community College (3.5km Southwest)