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| The railroad tunnel at Steep Rock Preserve pokes through a rocky outcrop as seen in May 2020. |
I like to visit a variety of places because get bored by doing the same hike over and over. Some area I have hiked, I never return because I did not find them to be interesting enough to warrant a second visit.
The recommended places on this page I enjoyed enough that I have returned to them multiple times. These hikes are listed partially alphabetically by location name with some grouping by ownership and/or by town, not ranked by my preferences of which I think is a more desirable place to hike.
The description of what makes a location an above-average place to hike can be found on the page Characteristics of a Good Hiking Area: https://westrocktrails.blogspot.com/p/blog-page_20.html
Some of the trails described in this guide are Blue-Blazed Trails managed by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA). The CFPA has an interactive map on its website that allows hikers to see an overview of the entire trail system with information about trail length and parking. Support CFPA by becoming a member because the trails don’t maintain themselves; the volunteers (with some help from a small staff and a summer trails crew) keeps the trails in good shape.
Interactive map: https://www.ctwoodlands.org/blue-blazed-hiking-trails/blue-blazed-hiking-trails-interactive-map
For other hiking areas managed by private organizations, pick one to support, so they can keep their trails maintained.
For state parks and forests, encourage the governor and your state representative and senator to properly fund state parks and forests (which are chronically underfunded and understaffed). You can also join the Friends of Connecticut State Parks, which advocates for the state parks, and, if one exists, a friends group for your favorite state park. Website: https://friendsctstateparks.org
For any of these areas, help out by becoming a trail maintainer yourself.
Disclaimer: The information presented here was believed to be accurate at the time it was posted in May 2020, or when a particular hike was added. Trails can change over time, including being closed, relocated, and blazed a different color. The website links were checked and working in May 2020. Some links were updated at that time because the previous links had been changed and were no longer valid. It is reasonable to assume that as organizations continue to update websites, links will change and old web addresses will not work. If a link does not work, just do a search for that trail or property to locate the current website.
Scroll down to read the hike information:
Steep Rock Association
- Hidden Valley Preserve, Washington Depot
- Steep Rock Preserve, Washington Depot
- Macricostas Preserve, Washington
Roxbury Land Trust
- Mine Hill and Carter Preserves, Roxbury
- River Road, Erbacher, and Golden Harvest Preserves, Roxbury
- Lilly and Baldwin Preserves, Roxbury
CFPA Blue-Blazed Trails
- American Legion State Forest, Barkhamsted
- People’s State Forest, Barkhamsted
- Prospect Mountain Preserve, Litchfield
- Housatonic Range Trail, New Milford
- Mattatuck Trail, Litchfield County (with a small portion in New Haven County)
Other Locations- White Memorial Conservation Center, Litchfield
- Whittemore Sanctuary, Woodbury
- White Memorial Conservation Center, Litchfield
- Whittemore Sanctuary, Woodbury
Litchfield County
Hidden Valley Preserve, Washington Depot
· Why you should go: Hidden Valley is a 650-acre preserve that offers the opportunity to hike along the twisty Shepaug River and narrow Bee Brook under the cover of large hemlock trees in an area that feels ancient and untouched. Other features include a view of the area from the Pinnacle, an old quartz quarry, rugged rock formations, and two impressive pedestrian bridges over the river.
· Starting Location/Parking: There is a dirt parking lot at 110 Bee Brook Rd. (Rt. 47), Washington Depot, south of the bridge over the Shepaug River, 1.2 mi. N. of jct. with Rt. 199 in Washington Depot, or 2 miles south of Rt. 202. There is a smaller dirt lot north of the bridge. Between the two lots, there is probably room for 30 cars.
· Directions: I-84 Exit 15 to Rt. 67 North for 5.4 miles. Left on Rt. 47 North for 10.3 miles. The parking area is on the right before (or after) the bridge over the Shepaug River. From central Conn., take Rt. 4 West to Rt. 118 West to Rt. 202 West. Ten miles west of Litchfield Green, turn left on Rt. 47 South for 2 miles, and park on the left after (or before) the bridge over the Shepaug River.
· Map link: https://steeprockassoc.org/hidden-valley-preserve/
· Trail Descriptions: Trails are generally wide with good footing and are clearly blazed. Intersections can be confusing because Hidden Valley sometimes has the same color headed in three directions. Also note that there are various White Diamond Trails in the preserve, which is Hidden Valley's way of denoting short connector trails.
· Suggested Hike: From the parking lot, follow the Yellow Circle Trail to the Pinnacle for the view, and then head north to the Lookout and the Quartz Mine. Return to the parking lot along the Yellow Circle Trail. In dry conditions, switch from the Yellow Circle Trail to the Orange Square Trail for closer river views along the last portion of the hike. As noted in the Safety Concerns section below, do not use the Orange Square Trail in icy conditions.
Extend this hike by taking the Green Square Trail east from the Quartz Mine, and heading north along the Yellow Square Trail. Return back to the Quartz Mine area along the Shepaug Railroad bed using the Yellow Square to the Green Square Trails. As with the shorter loop, return to the parking lot using either the Yellow Circle Trail, or the Yellow Circle Trail to the Orange Square Trail.
A second extension is possible from south of the Quartz Mine by crossing the pedestrian bridge and turning right onto the White Circle Trail and following that loop along the Shepaug River and returning along Bee Brook to the suspension bridge and the parking lot. As noted in the Safety Concerns section below, do not use the White Circle Trail in icy conditions.
For a relatively flat, easy hike, simply follow the various trails along the river, out and back. These include Yellow Circle, Green Square and Yellow Square.
· GPS track: This is an 8.7 mile loop up to the Pinnacle, over to the quarry, and along the river which can easily be shortened to 6.6 miles by skipping the section along Bee Brook, https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1001238901
· Safety concerns: The Orange Square Trail and the White Circle Trail along the Shepaug River are narrow and fairly close to a steep slope down to the river. These trails should be avoided in icy conditions. On the map they are shown with a dottedline, indicating they are for hiking only (no horses or bicycles). In such conditions, the Yellow Circle Trail is a suitable alternative to the Orange Square Trail. The Green Circle Trail could be used as an alternative to the White Circle Trail. After crossing the bridge on the Yellow Circle Trail, there is a long staircase with switchbacks to reach the White Circle Trail. This, too, would be difficult to navigate safely in icy conditions.
· Special considerations: Maintaining this preserve is expensive, so consider becoming a member of the Steep Rock Association: http://www.steeprockassoc.org/get-involved/membership/
Steep Rock Preserve, Washington Depot
· Why you should go: With towering hemlocks and pines lining the banks of the rocky Shepaug River, and mossy covered rock formation in the understory creating an old growth feeling, Steep Rock is a magical place to hike. Fun elements include a wooden suspension bridge over the river, a former railroad tunnel built by hand in the 1800s, and the stone foundation of an old resort. There is a viewpoint over “The Clamshell” named for the shape of the area carved out by the river.
· Starting Location/Parking: There is one central location for parking with multiple parking areas at 2 Tunnel Rd., Washington Depot. Although there are plenty of parking spaces, this is a popular area so parking may be tight on a good weather weekend.
· Directions: I-84 Exit 15 to Rt. 67 West for 11.5 miles. Straight on Rt. 199 North for 4.6 miles. Left on Rt. 47 for 1 mile. Left on River Rd. for 1.4 miles. Left on Tunnel Rd. and cross the river: the main parking area is straight ahead. There is a smaller parking area before the river, and another after the river on Tunnel Road. From this direction, GPS may tell you to turn left on Spring Hill Rd., or Kirby Brook Rd., but they are dirt, and Kirby Brook is a sharp left turn that is difficult to make from Rt. 199 North. It is better to stay on Rt. 199 to the center of Washington Depot.
· Map link: https://steeprockassoc.org/steep-rock-preserve/
· Trail Descriptions: Most trails at Steep Rock are wide with good footing, especially those marked on the map as following the old railroad bed. The hiking only trails are generally assumed to be more rugged and are indicated by a dotted line on the map.
· Suggested Hike:From the parking area, head south on the Yellow Circle Trail to the Steep Rock Summit. From the summit, backtrack on the Yellow Trail, and head south between the two loops of the river. Cross the river on the suspension bridge, turning right onto the Blue Square Trail after the bridge. Follow the White Diamond Trail north into the Clamshell, bearing left onto the Orange Square Trail and continuing to head north along the river. Where the Orange Square Trail heads south, you need to take a sharp right to stay on the Orange Square Trail and head north before the trail again heads south back to the White Diamond Trail where you entered the Clamshell. Take a left onto the White Diamond Trail to exit the Clamshell. Cross the Blue Square Trail (with camping area SR3 on the left) and head south on the White Diamond Trail. From there turn right and walk through the old railroad tunnel. At the end of the tunnel, either make a U-turn or continue to follow the Orange Square Trail through its loop. Either way, you will end up back on the Blue Square Trail that you will follow to the Yellow Circle Trail and the suspension bridge.
These are two choices to finish your hike:
If conditions are dry and you are interested in hiking a narrow, uneven trail with uncertain footing and a few minor rock scrambles, cross the suspension bridge, turn right, and follow the Green Circle Trail back to the parking area. Green Circle has a half-mile section marked with a dotted line that should not be used in slippery conditions.
If conditions are wet and icy, or you want a non-technical return, don’t cross the suspension bridge. Stay on the Yellow Circle Trail, which eventually follows Tunnel Road.
If you wish to also visit the Holiday House ruins, from the parking lot, follow the Blue Circle Trail to the ruins, and return on the White Circle Trail to Tunnel Road.
· GPS track: This GPS track is for a 7-mile hike with 1,300 feet of elevation gain that covers the various features in the preserve, excepting the Holiday House ruins. Shorten the hike by skipping the loop along the Orange Circle Trail north of the parking lot.
· Safety concerns: The Green Circle Trail along the Shepaug River along the west side of the Shepaug River has some narrow sections with uncertain footing as indicated on the map with the dashed lines, and should be avoided in wet and icy conditions. The Orange Circle Trail north of the parking area is a narrow trail cut into the steep bank of the river that creates a feeling a hiker may fall, so this is not a trail for nervous people.
· Special considerations: The Steep Rock map can be challenging to read and the trails can be tricky to navigate. One reason is because particular trail colors wander all over the place. Also, Steep Rock uses a White Diamond to mark connecting trails, and there are multiple White Diamond Trails in the preserve. As a result, pay careful attention to trail markings and be prepared to backtrack if the markings indicate you are not where you hoped to be.
If you continue past the summit on the White Rectangle Trail, you have to return the same way as there is no way to cross the river.
The map indicates five “fords” of the river with the letter F. Horses only can navigate these fords and only when the river is not running fast, which it often is doing. There are only two river crossings with a bridge: the road bridge on River Road and the wooden suspension bridge at the southern end of the preserve. Tunnel Road along the river’s east bank is open to cars in warmer weather.
Macricostas Preserve, Washington (New Preston)
· Why You Should Go: A good overlook of the fields and hills to the south and an impressive viewpoint over Lake Waramaug and the surrounding countryside to the north and west are the highlights of this 560-acre preserve. The ascent to the overlooks passes through beautiful woodlands with interesting rock formations along the way. The trail along the hay field provides varying perspectives of the adjacent hills.
· Starting Location/Parking:Meet at the parking lot behind the red house owned by the Steep Rock Association at 124 Christian St., New Preston, off Rt. 202.The dirt parking lot has room for about 35 cars. There is potentially room to squeeze another 15 cars in the grassy area behind the house and along the entry driveway. There is a pull-off area for about six cars on Christian Street with a wide trail to the hay field. When I arrived at 10 a.m. on a beautiful October Saturday, there were about 20 cars in the parking lot. When I left in the afternoon, every conceivable parking space was taken and as one car left, another car was arriving to take that space.
.Directions: From the west or east, takeI-84 Exit 15 to Rt. 6 West for 5.3 miles. Left on Rt. 47 for 12.3 miles. Right on Rt. 202 East for 0.1 miles. Sharp left on Christian St. for 0.2 miles. Right into the driveway before the red house.
From the south, take Route 8, Exit 22 to Route 67 North for 10 miles. Pass under I-84 and continue north on Route 6 West for 5.3 miles. Left on Rt. 47 for 12.3 miles. Right on Rt. 202 East for 0.1 miles. Sharp left on Christian St. for 0.1 miles. Right into the driveway before the red house.
From the north, take Route 8, Exit 44 to Route 202 West for 15.3 miles. Right on Christian St. for 0.1 miles. Right into the driveway before the red house.
· Map link: https://steeprockassoc.org/macricostas-preserve/
· Trail Descriptions: This hike has 1,000 ft. of elevation gain, primarily from 1.8 to 3.5 miles. The Green Trail (Hay Field Loop) is a flat loop around a hayfield. The Orange Trail (Ridgeline Trail) is a steep climb, rising 500 feet in 1.3 miles. On the Yellow Trail (Meeker Trail) from the Macricostas Lookout to Waramaug’s Rock is only about 150 feet of elevation gain in 0.6 miles. The White Trail (Pinnacle Valley Trail) is a wide woods road with a steady descent of 320 ft. in 0.45 miles. From the Yellow and White Trail junction at the top of the hill to the base of the climb is a 500 ft. total descent in 0.8 miles.
· Suggested Hike: This 5.5 loop hikes most of the trails in the preserve, excepting a short section of the Yellow Trail from the Macricostas Lookout to the White Trail. This hike also skips the Blue Trail descent to Lake Waramaug. Hiking that trail would be a steady descent to the lake and a steep return back to Waramaug’s Rock, an elevation change of 530 feel over one mile.
From the parking lot, head straight onto the Storywalk Trail, then turn right almost immediately on the Yellow Trail and cross Bee Brook on the bridge. At the edge of the hay field at 0.2 miles, turn right to follow the Green Trail counterclockwise around the loop. At mile 0.8, turn right for a short out and back walk to the viewing platform over Meeker Swamp. Back at the field, turn right to continue the loop.
At mile 1.2 turn right onto the Yellow Trail, entering the woods and crossing Bee Brook on another bridge. At mile 1.4 turn right on the Orange Trail, heading east. Orange has a steep 450 ft. climb from 1.8 miles to mile 2.7 at the junction with the Yellow Trail. From this junction, turn left on the Yellow Trail and arrive at the Macricostas Overlook (elevation 1,080 ft.) in 0.1 miles. This overlook provides a view to the south over the hay field and the fields on Spring Hill Farms on the south side of Route 202.
Return to the junction of Yellow and Orange, and turn left on the Yellow Trail at mile 2.9. There is a moderate climb of 200 feet up to Waramaug’s Rock (elevation 1,280 ft.), arriving there at mile 3.4. There are multiple impressive viewpoints to the north and west on this large rock face, featuring Lake Waramaug and the surrounding countryside. When descending off the rock, bear left to return to the Yellow Trail, instead of mistakenly taking the Blue Circle Trail.
At the junction with the White Trail at mile 3.8, turn right for a steady descent of 320 feet over 0.45 miles. At mile 4.25, turn right on the Yellow Trail, passing the Orange Trail junction at mile 4.55. At mile 4.8 turn right on the Yellow/Green Trails at the fields. At mile 5, turn right on the Yellow Trail to return back to the parking lot. At the Storybrook Trail, continue straight to follow the loop counterclockwise, return to the parking lot at 5.5 miles.
The most direct route to the overlooks would be to follow the Yellow Trail to the hay field, turn left at mile 0.2 on the Yellow/Green Trails, turn left at mile 0.5 on Yellow out of the hay field, turn left at mile 0.7 on Yellow at the Orange Trail, turn right at mile 1 on Yellow at the White Trail, and arrive at the Macricostas Lookout at mile 1.25. From that point, follow the route as described above, yielding a hike length of 4 miles.
· GPS track: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/5691478355
This 5.5-mile hike with a mild 1,000 feet of elevation gain matches the notes from the suggested hike.
· Safety concerns: There a few short rocky sections that could be slippery in wet conditions.
· Special considerations: The lower trails near Meeker Swamp are infested with a variety of undesirable invasive plant species, including winged euonymus (burning bush) and privet, both plants commonly used for landscaping. These invasive species are crowding out native shrubs and trees. This website describes expansion plans: https://steeprockassoc.org/pinnacle/
Mine Hill and Carter Preserves, Roxbury
· Why you should go: The 360-acre Mine Hill Preserve is the location of a former iron mine and furnace. The stone furnace building still stands, as do the stone roasting ovens. The mine openings are visible and covered with an iron cage that lets bats enter the underground passages. The terrain is interesting with rock outcroppings in a peaceful forest and there is also a small pond. For those who just want to visit the furnace complex, that is a short distance from the parking lot. The adjacent 160-acre Carter Preserve contains a hardwood forest.
· Starting Location/Parking: Start at the Mine Hill Preserve parking area, 34 Mine Hill Rd., off Rt. 67. The gravel parking lot holds 8-10 cars. About 5 more cars could be squeezed alongside the entry driveway. No other parking is available nearby.
· Directions: From I-84 Exit 15, take Rt. 67 North for 10.5 miles thru Roxbury. Right on Mine Hill Rd. (dirt road) for 0.3 miles to a parking lot on the right. From New Milford, take Rt. 7 to Rt. 67 South for 7 miles. Left on Mine Hill Rd. (dirt road). Right into the parking lot in 0.3 miles.
· Map link: http://roxburylandtrust.org/MapMineHill.pdf
· Trail Descriptions: If traveling clockwise, the first 2.5 miles of trail are rugged with occasional uneven footing and slippery spots. There is a moderate climb from the parking lot at about 400 feet of elevation to the high point in Mine Hill of about 700 feet or in the Carter Preserve at 890 feet. The trails on the east side of the preserve near the Shepaug River are relatively flat and wide with good footing. There is a moderate climb for one section of this area. The main loop trail at Mine Hill is marked with Blue blazes. The short Nature Trail is marked with Yellow Blazes. The loop trail at the Carter Preserve is marked with Red Blazes.
· Suggested Hike: Follow the Blue Trail from the parking lot, so you are hiking in a clockwise direction. If you wish to do a longer hike, continue on the Red Trail at the Quarry Bridge into the Carter Preserve for a pleasant woodlands loop. Otherwise, stay on the Blue Trail. Whether you do the Carter Preserve or not, the return is south on the Blue Trail along the river. Near the parking lot, explore the furnace complex. The final option is to head north on the Blue Trail above the furnace complex, then turn right on the Yellow Trail to loop around the pond. When you come to the Blue Trail, turn left to return to the parking lot.
· GPS track: This loop has 1,400 ft. of elevation gain. The hike can easily be shortened to 5.5 miles by skipping Carter Preserve and to 4.5 miles by not doing the loop around the pond:http://ridewithgps.com/trips/3939253.
· Safety concerns: There are no safety concerns. These trails can be safely hiked, even in slippery conditions.
· Special considerations: Since this is probably the land trust’s most popular property, there is the possibility the parking lot may be full when you arrive. The Roxbury Land Trust has other properties, all of which are enjoyable to visit. Maps and information at http://roxburylandtrust.org
The following provides information on the larger preserves in Roxbury.
River Road, Erbacher, and Golden Harvest Preserves, Roxbury
Start at the River Road parking area, near 69 River Rd., off Wellers Bridge Rd., near Rt. 67.
From I-84 Exit 15, take Rt. 67 North for 8.3 miles. Left on Wellers Bridge Rd. for 1.2 miles. Left on River Road (dirt) for 0.6 miles to a parking lot on the right. From New Milford, take Rt. 7 to Rt. 67 South for 5.4 miles. Right on Wellers Bridge Rd. for 0.1 miles. Right on River Rd. (dirt road) for 0.6 miles to a parking lot on the right. The gravel parking lot holds 10 cars.
Trail Notes:The combined acreage of these preserves is 565 acres. The Shepaug Railway section is flat and easy. The Blue Trail in the River Road preserve has uncertain footing along the river, particularly in wet and icy conditions with a narrow treadway, and has some steep up and down sections by the Knoll. The Blue Trail in the Erbacher Preserve has a sharp climb and moderately sharp descent in the section away from the river. The Blue Trail in the Erbacher Preserve toward Minor Bridge Road is moderate in difficulty. Trails are marked with metal disks with a hiker logo.
The out-and-back from the railroad to the two ponds at the top of the hill in the meadow of the Orzeck Family Preserve is moderate in steepness and 0.75 miles long, but the ponds are not interesting and view from the meadow to the next ridge is not good enough to make the climb worthwhile. The Shepaug Railroad is 1.2 miles from the Volunteers Bridge to Wellers Bridge Road. The railroad does not connect to Minor Bridge Road because it is someone’s driveway at that point. The length of the railbed from the Blue Trail to the southern end of the preserve is probably about 0.6 miles.
GPS track of a 7.2-mile loop at https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1504467456
This specific trail maps may be found at http://www.roxburylandtrust.org/MapRiverRoad.pdfand http://roxburylandtrust.org/MapRiver'sEdge.pdf.
Lilly and Baldwin Preserves, Roxbury
Start at the Lilly Preserve parking area, Old Tophet Road, Roxbury.
Directions:From I-84 Exit 15, take Rt. 67 North for 8.2 miles, then right on Rt. 317 East for 2.7 miles. Left on Tophet Road (paved) for 1.5 miles. Left on Old Tophet Road (dirt) (Goldmine Road straight ahead) for 0.1 miles, then bear right at Welton Road (dirt) to stay on Old Tophet Road. (Welton is a more direct connection from Rt. 317, but is dirt the entire way). The parking lot is down a narrow dirt driveway 0.3 miles past Laurel Lane. Parking for 6-8 cars in the parking lot. Do not park on the shoulder because the road is too narrow.
Trail Notes:The trails are rolling to moderately hilly in these 161-acre properties. The only extended climb is from 1.6 to 2.3 miles in the Baldwin Preserve (580 ft. to 860 ft.) Total elevation gain is 550 ft. GPX track for a 4.3-mile loop: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/981304204.
Trail maps at http://roxburylandtrust.org/MapLilly.pdfand http://roxburylandtrust.org/MapBaldwin.pdf
American Legion State Forest, Barkhamsted
· Why you should go: The Henry Buck Trail is the main reason to hike this area. The trail has a magical feel to it as it passes through an area of tall trees where the dappled sunlight filters through the hemlock trees as you ascend a series of steps constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Babbling brooks cross the trail as it passes large rock formations. The Tremendous Cliffs offer a limited view toward the Farmington River Valley and Ski Sundown. The trail descends to the road along a brook with a series of small cascades. West River Road provides excellent views of the Farmington River.
Since this 2.3-mile loop is probably not enough hiking for most people, hike up the gravel Legion Road to the Turkey Vulture Ledge Trail. This trail passes through a hardwood forest with little to distinguish itself, other than the impressive view at the end, which features an open vista over the Farmington River, Peoples State Forest, and to Ski Sundown. At the end of the hike, explore the ruins of Camp White, the CCC camp from the 1970s, located off Legion Road near West River Road.
· Starting Location/Parking: There are many places to park along the shoulder of West River Road, mostly on the woods side of the road. There is room for about 8 cars at the trailhead for the Henry Buck Trail, but if you are doing the full forest loop, this is not the best place to park because the hike will end with a roadwalk.
The recommended place to park for the full loop is on West River Road by the Legion Road sign, which has room for about 10 cars along the shoulder (with an approximate address of 85 West River Road, Barkhamsted), or in the small parking area on Legion Road near the gate that is closed from December to April, which has room for about 5 cars.
· Directions: From southwestern Connecticut, take Rt. 8 North to the end of the highway and head east on Rt. 44 for 3.2 miles. Left on Rt. 318 for 0.8 miles. Left on West River Road for 2.3 miles. Park on the shoulder on the forest side near Legion Road.
From central Connecticut and the coastal area of eastern Connecticut, take Rt. 9 North, Exit 32 to I-84 West, Exit 39 to Route 4 West for 7.5 miles. Straight on Rt. 179 for 4.1 miles. Left on Rt. 44 West for 6.8 miles. Right on Rt. 318 for 0.8 miles. Left on West River Road for 2.3 miles. Park on the shoulder on the forest side near Legion Road.
· Map link: State park map: http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2716&q=325054&deepNav_GID=1650
Alan M. Perrie has created a narrative with a map for the two trails with the Turkey Vulture Ledge description including Legion Road:
https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/8aa1208a/files/uploaded/henry_buck_loop.pdf
https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/8aa1208a/files/uploaded/turkey_vulture_ledge.pdf
· Trail Descriptions: The Henry Buck Loop has rock steps on the ascent, a tricky ledge to climb, followed by a narrow trail along the edge of the hill, that descends to the road along the edge of a brook. The Turkey Ledges Trail is a gradual uphill with secure footing. Legion Road is a gravel road that is open to vehicles from May to November. The entire loop has 1,200 ft. of elevation gain. The Henry Buck Loop has 600 ft. of elevation gain. The Turkey Vulture Ledges Trail has 250 ft. of elevation gain. Legion Road has 350 ft. of elevation gain. Both trails are marked with Blue Blazes.
· Suggested Hike: This loop follows the GPS track indicated below and starts from West River Road at Legion Road by the Legion Road sign. If you plan to do the full loop, bring just one water bottle and leave your lunch in the car to save weight on the first part of the hike.
Walk north on West River Road with the Farmington River on your right. Be aware of oncoming traffic. Turn left on the Henry Buck Trail by the sign at mile 0.3 of your hike. On the right is the stone foundation of a CCC constructed bridge that largely washed away in the Hurricane of 1938. At mile 1.1, pass the stone foundation of a former cheese box mill on the left. At mile 1.3 is a metal plaque honoring Henry Buck, set high up in a rock slab. I was able to read this by zooming in with my camera. At mile 1.6, the Tremendous Cliffs are on the right with a view to the east. Shortly past the cliffs is a tricky ledge to ascend, followed by a narrow trail right at the edge of the steep hill, which soon descends to West River Road. Turn right on West River Road at mile 1.8 to return to the cars.
If you left your lunch and second water bottle, be sure to pick those up before continuing the hike. Right on Legion Road (dirt) by the Legion Road sign, and turn left at the next junction. Legion Road is a steady ascent for almost the entire distance, a climb that is steep at first, but then levels out. For the full mileage, as shown on the GPS track, continue past the Turkey Vulture Ledges Trail at mile 4.1, soon coming to a beaver dam built on the road. Walk across the beaver dam and turn around at the end of the road at mile 4.4. After crossing the dam again, turn right on the Turkey Vulture Ledges Trail at mile 4.8. The trail ends with an impressive view at mile 5.2. Turn around and backtrack on the trail, turning right on Legion Road at mile 5.6.
At mile 7, notice a concrete foundation in the woods to the left of a small bridge and on the right just past the bridge. After crossing the bridge, turn left into Camp White to explore further ruins of the CCC camp, including a stone chimney from the infirmary building on the right, and two other stone foundations further along the loop road, also on the right. At mile 7.3, follow the loop road back to the gate, turning right on Legion Road, crossing the bridge, and then turning left on Legion Road to return to West River Road and the cars at 7.5 miles.
Note: If the camp is being used by campers, respect their privacy and stay out.
For a shorter hike:Park at the trailhead for the Henry Buck Trail and do just that 1.7 mile loop, then drive to the Turkey Vulture Ledge Trail and do just that 0.8 mile out and back hike.
For a longer hike:This hike uses the two blazed trails and the gravel roads within the forest. There are logging roads off Legion Road, but I have not explored those and they likely do not go very far. Instead, drive to the Peoples State Forest and hike there.
· GPS track: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/6503434448
· Safety concerns: The Henry Buck Trail is best hiked in dry conditions due to these safety concerns: there is a ledge to ascend along the west part of the loop, which is a challenge to climb due to the height and few good places for hands and feet. On top of the ledge, the trail is narrow and right near the edge of a steep hill. On the descent back to the road, the trail remains narrow as it parallels a brook. Someone hiking fast could easily trip on an exposed root or rock and go tumbling down the hill to the brook. Adding mud and/or ice to these trails would make the challenge that much greater. A hiking pole will definitely provide an extra measure of stability.
The loop should definitely be done in a clockwise direction, so that you are climbing the ledge, not trying to descend off it. In this shady area, the trail could easily have snow and ice into April.
West River Road is open to traffic and can have a fair amount of traffic. There is no shoulder on the riverside and few places where you can walk on the protected side of the guard wire. There is a shoulder along most of the woods side.
· Special considerations: If there is snow on the ground, parking will be limited since the road shoulders may have snow piles on them and Legion Road is not likely to be plowed.
From May to November or whenever the state opens the gate, someone could drive the approximate 1.5-mile distance up Legion Road and park near the Turkey Vulture Ledges Trail. Keep in mind the road is gravel and narrow and will likely be a bouncy ride.
For a detailed explanation of Camp White, read the book, The Connecticut Civilian Conservation Corps Camps, which has 30 pages on Camp White, including a camp map and descriptions and many photos, including a photo of the footbridge over the Farmington River that washed away in 1938. Website:
https://martinpodskoch.com/connecticut-ccc/
People’s State Forest, Barkhamsted
· Why you should go: This is a beautiful forest with towering evergreen trees along the banks of the West Branch Farmington River. There is a babbling brook and a small waterfall. The overlooks on the Jessie Gerard Trail provide excellent views of the river and the river valley. There is also the ruins of a Native American settlement on the Lighthouse Trail that is interesting to explore.
· Starting Location/Parking:The main parking area with restrooms is located at the Matthies Grove Recreation area, 115 East River Rd., Barkhamsted. There are two large paved lots with plenty of parking.
· Directions: Rt. 8 North to the end of the highway and head east on Rt. 44 for 3.2 miles. Left on Rt. 318 for 0.8 miles. After crossing the iron bridge, left on East River Rd. for 1.1 miles. Left into the recreation area.
I-84, Exit 39 to Route 4 West to Route 179 North to Route 44 West to Route 181 North for 1.2 miles. After crossing the iron bridge, left on East River Rd. for 1.1 miles. Left into the recreation area.
· Map link: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Forests/American-Legion-and-Peoples-State-Forests
· Trail Descriptions: The forest has both narrow hiking trails and wide woods roads. The descent on the Jessie Gerard Trail to East River Road is moderated by a series of switchbacks. Trail junctions are marked with signs. The town of Barkamsted has detailed trail descriptions on its website: https://www.barkhamsted.us/community/pages/hiking-barkhamsted
· Suggested Hike: From the parking area, cross East River Road to the Blue-Blazed Robert Ross Trail and turn left to go north. Continue onto the Blue-Yellow Jessie Gerard Trail, which eventually loops south. The Blue-Yellow Trail changes name at Greenwoods Road (gravel) to the Charles Pack Trail. Finish the hike by taking the Blue-Orange Agnes Bowen Trail back to East River Road and the parking area. From Beaver Brook Road, take the right folk of the Agnes Bowen Trail for a shorter return or the left fork for a longer return.
· GPS track: This track is for a 7.8 mile hike with 1,300 feet of elevation gain: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2641940730
· Safety concerns: The steep sections on the Jessie Gerard Trail could pose a footing issue in icy conditions. Footing is steep and potentially slippery on the Falls Cut Off Trail, should you choose to use this trail to see the cascades.
· Special considerations:I would not recommend hiking the Elliott Bronson Trail from the west to the Indian Rock Shelter more than once. There is too much climbing for little reward. The Elliott Bronson out and back hike is 4.5 miles with 1,160 ft. of elevation gain and is a steady 625 ft. climb in the first 1.2 miles. The return climb has 400 ft. of elevation gain in 0.9 miles. If you wish to visit the Indian Rock Shelter, park at the trailhead on Route 181, which is only a half-mile hike to this destination.
Prospect Mountain Preserve, Litchfield
· Why you should go: The Prospect Mountain Preserve is located on a 340-acre parcel on top of a mountain with twin summits, the highest of which is 1,350 feet. The property is the location of an old nickel mine and mine entrances are visible along the trails. There is a pleasant pond on the west side of Prospect Mountain Road.
· Starting Location/Parking: The parking area at 225 Cathole Road, Litchfield, holds about 8 cars.
· Directions:
From the north: Rt. 8 South, Exit 42 to Rt. 118 West to Rt. 202 West for 4.1 miles. Right on Cathole Rd. for 1.6 miles. The parking area is on the left.
From the south: Rt. 8 North, Exit 38 to Rt. 6 West to Rt. 109 West for 8.5 miles. Right on Rt. 209 North for 3 miles. Left on Rt. 202 West for 0.7 miles. Right on Cathole Rd. for 1.6 miles. The parking area is on the left.
From the west:From Rt. 7 in Kent, take Rt. 341 East for 13.2 miles. Left on Route 202 East for 3.2 miles. Left on Cathole Rd. for 1.6 miles. The parking area is on the left.
· Map link: Download the Prospect Mountain Trail Map from http://www.litchfieldlandtrust.org/
· Trail Descriptions: The trails have varying levels of difficulty with a mixture of steep sections that ascend the mountain directly, and more moderate sections where the trails follow the ridge lines. Both summits have viewpoints that are somewhat screened by trees. The south summit has the more open view. The Blue Trail was formerly a section of the Mattatuck Trail, but no longer connects to other trail sections. Hiking poles are strongly recommended for stability in this varied terrain.
· Suggested Hike: This 5.7-mile loop hike has a moderate 1,100 feet of elevation gain. The double loop uses all the trails in the preserves, and uses Prospect Mountain Road (a quiet, dirt road) to connect the Blue trail with the White Trail.
From the Cathole Road parking area, ascend the mountain on the Blue Trail. At 0.9 miles, turn left on the White Trail. At 2.2 miles, turn right on Prospect Mountain Road (dirt). At 2.8 miles, turn left on the Red Trail to follow the loop clockwise around Grannis Pond. At the end of the loop at 3.4 miles (a mine is on the left), turn left on Prospect Mountain Road (mine just before the turn), and almost immediately, turn right by the parking area on the Blue Trail and ascend to the North Summit (1,350 feet) at mile 4.1. Turn right to stay on the Blue Trail (the Yellow Trail is straight) and at 4.5 miles, make a U-turn at the White Trail, stopping at the South Summit on the way back on the Blue Trail. At 4.8 miles, turn right on the Yellow Trail to descend back to the parking area, passing two mines in about half a mile. At 5.6 miles, turn left on Blue to return the Cathole Road parking area.
For a shorter hike of 4.4 miles: At 2.8 miles on Prospect Mountain Road, turn right on the Blue Trail (skipping the 0.6 mile Red Trail loop) and at the junction of the Blue Trail with the Yellow Trail, continue straight on the Yellow Trail (skipping the 0.7 mile out and back hike on the Blue Trail to the south summit).
For an even shorter hike of 1.7 miles, follow the Blue Trail from Cathole Road and stay on the Blue Trail at the White Trail, then turn right on the Yellow Trail to return to the parking area.
· GPS track: This track is for the 5.7-mile loop hike described above: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2592529302
· Safety concerns: With steep sections in the preserve, footing could be uncertain in icy and snowy conditions, so wear traction devices, as needed.
· Special considerations: Hunting is permitted, so wear blaze orange during hunting season (typically September to December are peak hunting months), or hike on Sunday when hunting is prohibited in Connecticut.
If you are hiking with a large group on the weekend, the nearby Bantam Borough Hall, 890 Bantam Rd. (Rt. 202), Bantam (Litchfield) is a convenient meeting spot to leave some cars and then carpool to the trailhead. From the borough hall, turn right on Rt. 202 West for 0.5 miles, then right on Cathole Rd. for 1.6 miles. The parking area is on the left.
For those seeking additional nearby hiking, drive to the 80-acre Shepaug Crossing Preserve, which has views of the Shepaug River, ruins of a large dam, a brook with a mill race, and an old iron forge. Download a map from the Litchfield Land Trust website.
Directions from Prospect Mountain Preserve to the Shepaug Crossing Preserve, 283 Litchfield Turnpike (Route 202), New Preston:
From the parking area, turn right on Cathole Road for 1.6 miles. Right on Route 202 West for 3.2 miles. There is a dirt parking area on the left, just past Romford Road on the left and Route 341 on the right.
· Suggested Hike: This 3-mile loop has 600 feet of elevation gain. When I hiked this in 2018, the Little Knoll Trail did not exist and even if it did, there is no view on the knoll.
GPS track: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2592534149
From the parking area, cross Route 202 and walk along the shoulder, paying attention to traffic. Turn left in 0.2 miles to enter the preserve on the Blue Trail by utility pole #590S. This is a stem and loop hike (aka a lollipop hike) where you use the stem in both directions to connect to the look. At 0.7 miles, bear left to follow the Blue Trail along the Shepaug River. At 1.3 miles, turn right before Tumbledown Brook to ascend the hill (200 feet of gain in 0.3 miles). At 2.1 miles, turn left to follow the Blue Trail stem back to Route 202. At 2.8 miles, cross Route 202 and follow the shoulder back to the parking area.
Housatonic Range Trail, New Milford
· Why you should go: This trail is for those desiring a physically demanding hike over rugged, rocky terrain with plenty of climbing and some rock scrambling as the trail switches from ascents to descents and back to ascents again. The rock formations are impressive, and the many evergreens are beautiful. There are limited views from the top.
· Special considerations: The Housatonic Range Trail is cut in half at Everwood Drive, New Milford, due to a subdivision. The way the trail is laid out, it requires hiking out and back with limited options for loops or car spotting to create a one-way hike. The descriptions below narrate two different hikes from different starting locations.
If you had to choose just one of these to hike, the Candlewood Mountain section is the more interesting trail segment.
Since parking is limited at trailheads, larger groups should meet at Big Y, 1 Kent Rd. #1 (Route 7), which also has an address of 21 Peagler Hill Rd., New Milford, and carpool to the trailhead.
· Safety concerns: These hikes have steep sections and the Candlewood Mountain section crosses various rock formations with tricky footing. It is recommended to hike these only in dry conditions.
· Directions to Big Y: From the east, take I-84, Exit 15 to Route 67 North to New Milford. Left on Route 202 West, then cross Route 7 to Peagler Hill Rd. Right into the shopping center, and then right to the parking area near the road.
Housatonic Range Trail: Candlewood Mountain, New Milford
· Starting Location/Parking: For the southern portion of the trail, park at 2 Concord Way, New Milford. There is room for 6 cars in a small lot, plus others could be squeezed onto the road shoulder.
· Directions: From the east, take I-84, Exit 15 to Route 67 North to New Milford. Left on Route 202 West, then right on Route 7 North for 2.7 miles, then left on Route 37 for 0.3 miles, then right onto Concord Way. The unmarked parking area is on the right just past the turn.
If coming from the Big Y, turn left on Route 7 North and follow the above directions.
· Trail Descriptions: The trail has some rugged sections and should only be hiked in dry conditions. There are sections with uncertain footing on the ascent to Candlewood Mountain, with some long rock slabs to traverse. The Corkscrew is a rock scramble with large rocks that if used, should only be done heading up to the mountain. Kelly’s Slide is best done heading up to the mountain, and then take the easier way back on the Blue Trail. The Blue Trail by the cave north of Route 37 passes through the cave. This can be bypassed on the Blue-Green Trail. Beyond the cave the ascent is steep.
· Map link: A paper copy is printed in the Connecticut Walk Book.
The only online map for the full trail is the CFPA Interactive Map.
This map shows the trail by Candlewood Mountain, south of Route 37: https://weantinoge.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/CANDLEWOOD-MT.-3.9.16-Updates.pdf
· Suggested Hike: This 7.4-mile hike has 1,850 ft. of elevation gain. From Concord Way, turn right to head south on the Blue Trail, turn left to follow the trail along Route 37 (Sherman Road), then right to enter the woods at the corner by Candlewood Mountain Road. In 0.8 miles the Blue-Trail passes through the corkscrew, which is a rock scramble, or use the Blue-White Bypass Trail. At mile 1, pass over the Pine Knob summit (elevation 710 ft.), which has a minor view. At 1.5 miles, turn left on the Blue-Red Kelly’s Slide Trail, which is a rock scramble in places. At mile 2, turn left on the Blue Trail. The trail ends at mile 2.3 on Candlewood Mountain (elevation 995 feet), which has no view. Return on the Blue Trail, passing the Blue-Red Trail twice on the return. At mile 3.2, take the Blue-White Bypass Trail (unless you want the challenge of the Corkscrew on the Blue Trail). At mile 3.9, left on Route 37 (Sherman Road), then right on Concord Way.
For those desiring a longer hike, follow the Blue Trail north from Concord Way. For the first half mile, the trail parallels the road and the backyards of houses. At 4.8 miles, go straight on the Blue-Green bypass trail near a rock formation with a cave called the Suicide Ledges. At 5.8 miles, turn left as the trail follows Squash Hollow Road, and almost immediately right to re-enter the woods. At mile 6.0, turn around at Everwood Drive. The trail does follow Everwood Drive for a quarter mile, but it’s a steep climb with no shade and then new houses block the trail. At Squash Hollow Road at mile 6, turn left onto the road, then almost immediately right to get back into the woods. At mile 7.4, arrive back at Concord Way.
· GPS track: To be added at a later date
Housatonic Range Trail: Tory’s Cave, New Milford
· Starting Location/Parking: For the northern portion of the trail, park at the Tory’s Cave trailhead,499 Kent Rd. (Rt. 7), New Milford. The parking area has room for about 8 cars.
· Directions:I-84, Exit 7 to Route 7 North/Route 202 East for 15.6 miles. The parking area is on the left 1.3 miles past Squash Hollow Road the first time you see this road.
Carpool directions from Big Y: To reach the Tory’s Cave parking area, turn left from Peagler Hill Rd. on Route 7 North and drive 5 miles. The parking area is on the left 1.3 miles past Squash Hollow Road the first time you see this road.
· Map link: A paper copy is printed in the Connecticut Walk Book.
The only online map for the full trail is the CFPA Interactive Map. This map shows the trail section by Tory’s Cave: https://weantinoge.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/TorysCaveHuntPreserve_Trail_Map_Letter.pdf
· Trail Descriptions: The trail has some steep sections, which can be tricky to navigate in slippery conditions, particularly the descent from Straits Rock toward Gaylord Rd. Elevation changes from Rt. 7 (270 ft. of elev.) to approaching Straits Rock (750 ft. of elev.) at mile 2.0. The trail then mostly descends to Gaylord Rd. (275 ft. of elev.) at mile 3.0. From mile 4.7 to 6.6, elevation changes are moderate.
· Suggested Hike: This 7-mile hike has 1,700 feet of elevation gain. From the parking area, follow the Blue-Yellow Trail, almost immediately passing Tory’s Cave (which is closed to people to protect the bats). At 0.3 miles, follow the Blue-Yellow Trail to the right where it splits. At 0.4 miles, turn right on the Blue Trail heading north. At 1 mile, turn left following the trail along Squash Hollow Road for a short distance, then right to re-enter the woods. At 2.5 miles, begin a steep descent. (If you are looking for a shorter hike, this is a logical turn-around point, saving 1 mile of walking.) At mile 3, turn around at Gaylord Road, and head south on the Blue Trail, climbing the hill you just descended. At 4.8 miles, turn left to follow the trail along Squash Hollow Road, then right to re-enter the woods. At mile 5.5 and 5.7, continue straight past the Blue-Yellow Trail. (If you are looking for a shorter hike, turn left the first time you see Blue-Yellow to return to the parking area, saving 1.2 miles). At mile 5.9, turn right on the Blue-Red Spur Trail, and then left the next junction on Blue-Red to follow the loop clockwise. At mile 6.3 at the end of the loop, continue straight on Blue-Red, then left on the Blue Trail at 6.35 miles. At 6.6 miles, turn right on the Blue Yellow Trail and right again at mile 6.8 on Blue-Yellow at the junction with itself, returning to the parking area at 7.1 miles.
· GPS track: This is a 7 mile mostly out and back hike: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/4362115004
News article about the Tory’s Cave section: http://www.newstimes.com/local/article/New-preserve-expands-New-Milford-s-hiking-and-11200633.php#photo-13039899
Mattatuck Trail, Litchfield County (with a small portion in New Haven County)
· Why you should go: The 42-mile Mattatuck Trail, which cuts diagonally across Litchfield County (with about a 2.5 mile section in the New Haven County town of Wolcott), has many beautiful features, including the cascades along the Mad River in Wolcott, the multi-level Buttermilk Falls in Plymouth, numerous small ponds and lakes, views of reservoirs in Morris and Litchfield, and the craggy rock formations of Litchfield. In Thomaston, the Mattatuck Trail meets the Jericho Trail at one of the larger and better known Leatherman’s Caves in the state.
The Mattatuck Trail passes through the Mattatuck State Forest in Thomaston and Watertown, Black Rock State Park and the adjacent U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Black Rock Lake property, both in Thomaston, White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield, and Mohawk State Forest in Cornwall and Goshen.
At the state forest, the Mattatuck Trail links to the Mohawk Trail, which was originally a section of the Appalachian Trail, before the AT was relocated to west of Route 7. The Mohawk Trail connects to the Appalachian Trail at both western junctions of the trail.
Due to its length, it will take most people multiple days to hike the Mattatuck Trail.
One consideration in hiking this trail is that in many areas, it is the only pathway, requiring either a car spot where you place a car at either end of the segment you are hiking, or doing an out and back hike. The best places for loop hikes are between Route 202 to the north and Route 6 to the south in White Memorial Conservation Center, along the Waterbury reservoirs in Watertown and Morris, and at Black Rock State Park in Watertown.
The trail exists in two distinct sections: from Peterson Memorial Park in Wolcott, the trail runs continuously to White Memorial Conservation Center’s northern section at Bissell Road, Litchfield. One trail in the Prospect Mountain Trails on Cathole Road in Litchfield used to be called the Mattatuck Trail, but that name changed with the Connecticut Walk Book edition in 2017. The northern trail section extends from Valley Road, Litchfield to Mohawk Mountain, Cornwall, passing through the Wyantenock and Mohawk State Forests, reservoir lands and the Warren Land Trust property.
The descriptions below highlight some trail sections, but the entire trail is worth hiking. Other sections not described here require either an out-and-back hike or a car spot.
· Mattatuck Trail: Peterson Memorial Park, Wolcott to Marino Pond, Plymouth (with a possible extension to Buttermilk Falls)
· Why you should hike this section: The cascades along the Mad River in Wolcott under the diffused light of a hemlock forest are the highlight of this hike. Should you choose to walk further, you can also visit the multi-step Buttermilk Falls in Plymouth. You can also hike the cascades, and then drive to the trailhead near the falls for a shorter hike to see both features.
· Starting Location/Parking: Peterson Memorial Park, 123 Mad River Rd., Wolcott
· Directions:
From the West: I-84 East to Exit 23 and head north on Rt. 69 for 6.5 miles. Just past Rt. 322, turn left on Mad River Rd. for 0.2 miles (Your GPS will likely miss this left turn), then right into the park.
From the East:I-691 Exit 4 to Rt. 322 West for 5.3 miles. Rt. 322 then turns sharply right and becomes Rt. 322 North. Follow it for 4.2 miles, past the church where the sign says Center Rd. Right on Rt. 69 North for 0.2 miles, then left on Mad River Road, then right into the park.
· Map link: The trail may be viewed on the CFPA Interactive Online map or in the Connecticut Walk Book.
· Trail Descriptions: The first part of hike follows the path of the Mad River heading north about 1.3 miles from the trailhead. At the powerlines, the trail heads west through a hardwood forest, and then passes by Marino Pond. At Wolcott Road, the trail turns north and follows the road to Buttermill Falls.
· Suggested Hike: From the trailhead behind the tennis courts, head north along the Mattatuck Trail, enjoying the cascades along the Mad River. About 1.3 miles from the start, the trail crosses the powerlines, and then turns west, soon crossing Spindle Hill Rd. at 1.8 miles. At 3.3 miles, walk past the north shore of Marino Pond. At 3.4 miles, make a U-turn at Wolcott Road and return the way you came. For a shorter hike, turn around at any time.
For a longer hike of 9 miles (with Buttermilk Falls as a destination):turn right and walk along the shoulder of Wolcott Road (paved) for 0.5 miles. Left off Wolcott Road and continue along the trail. In 0.3 miles, encounter Hancock Brook and the top of Buttermilk Falls. Descend along the brook and falls to the base in 0.25 miles. Turn around at the base of falls near Lane Street, Plymouth for the return route.
To skip the road walk to the falls, do the shorter hike from Peterson Park:
The drive to the road by the falls is about 3 miles. After returning to the park, get in your car and turn right on Mad River Road and head north. Bear right at the Y-int. on Spindle Hill Rd. and at the next Y-int., bear left on Allentown Rd. (which becomes Wolcott Rd.) Right on South Lane St., then right on Lane Hill Rd. in Plymouth for 0.3 miles. Park along the side of the road, then turn right to follow the Mattatuck Trail to the falls.
· GPS track: This is a 6.8 mile out and back hike with a mellow 700 feet of elevation gain: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/55906940
· Safety concerns: The section along the Mad River may be slightly challenging to hike during icy conditions, so wear traction devices on your boots at those times.
· Article:http://www.courant.com/news/connecticut/hc-marteka-mad-river-1102-20121101,0,6514418.column
· Mattatuck Trail: This hike covers portions of the Mattatuck Trail in Black Rock State Park and the Mattatuck State Forest in Watertown and Thomaston.
· Why you should hike this section: This 5-mile loop has a view from the overlook at Black Rock and on top of Leatherman’s Cave, and also visits the locally famous cave.
· Starting Location/Parking: Meet at Black Rock State Park, 2053 Thomaston Rd. (Route 6), Watertown. The state park may charge a fee to vehicles without Connecticut plates during the summer months.
· Directions:Rt. 8 to Exit 38. From Rt. 8 North, turn left onto S. Main St., and left onto Pine Hill Road and then bear left onto Rt. 6 West. The park entrance is on the right in half a mile. Park in the parking lot nearest the entrance. From Rt. 8 South, head directly onto Rt. 6 West and the park entrance is on the right in one-half mile.
· Map links:
Black Rock State Park: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Black-Rock-State-Park/Maps
Mattatuck State Forest, Thomaston and Watertown: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/stateparks/maps/MattatuckSFpdf.pdf?la=en
Black Rock Lake, Thomaston:www.nae.usace.army.mil/Portals/74/docs/Recreation/BRL/BRLRecMap.pdf
· Trail Descriptions: The trails on this loop generally consist of steep climbs and descents. The Blue-Yellow Branch Brook Trail is a flat pathway along an abandoned trolley line.
· Suggested Hike: This 5-mile hike with 1,100 ft. of elevation gain includes the loop within Black Rock State Park, which has a view from an overlook on the Mattatuck Trail. The route then crosses Route 6 into the Mattatuck Forest for a visit to Leatherman’s Cave, which also has a viewpoint on top called Crane’s Overlook, and then returns to the state park via the Blue-Yellow Branch Brook Trail.
From the parking lot near the entrance, walk across the field to the left of the entrance, continuing past (but not over) an iron footbridge and a part of Black Rock Pond to reach the Mattatuck Trail. Right on the Blue-Blazed Mattatuck Trail and in another 0.1 miles, right on the Red Trail. When the Red Trail ends in 0.4 miles, turn left on the Mattatuck Trail and climb steeply to reach the overlook in 0.2 miles. In 0.35 miles, continue on the Mattatuck Trail past the Red Trail. In 0.5 miles cross Bidwell Hill Rd., then in 0.3 miles, cross Route 6.
Now you are within the Mattatuck State Forest and in 0.8 miles, arrive at the Leatherman’s Cave (which has Crane’s Overlook at the top), and also the Blue-Blazed Jericho Trail, which is 3.2 miles long and ends at Echo Lake Road in Waterbury. The Mattatuck Trail from the Red Trail to Leatherman’s Cave is a generally steady uphill (with some short downhills). After taking in the view from overlook and exploring the cave, continue north along the Mattatuck Trail. In 1.1 miles, turn left on the Blue-Yellow Branch Brook Trail. The Mattatuck Trail in this section has a long descent, a 100-foot gain in elevation, and then a final descent to the Branch Brook Trail. Enjoy the flat terrain along the Branch Brook Trail for its 1.1-mile length. At the end, cross Route 6 to return to the park.
· GPS track: This track is for a 6.5 mile hike that includes the Black Rock Lake recreation area, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Since the section west of the loop in Black Rock State Park that starts west of the powerlines contains some unblazed trails with a route that is tricky to describe, the above narrative is for a 5-mile loop excludes the Black Rock Lake portion. The full hike has 1,300 ft. of elevation gain. Track: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/3894640
· Safety concerns: This hike is best done in dry, non-icy conditions due to some steep climbs, combined with some short, steep rock slabs with uncertain footing. If you do the full 6.5-mile hike, there are three major climbs: from 400 to 700 ft. along the Red Trail (mile 0.25 to 0.70), from 500 to 700 ft. on the Mattatuck Trail (mile 1.70 to 2.25), and from Rt. 6 to the Leatherman’s Cave, 400 to 700 ft. (mile 3.40 to 4.55). The Mattatuck Trail has a steep descent after Black Rock overlook, from 700 ft. to 400 ft. Doing just the 5 mile version described above eliminates the 200 foot climb from mile 1.70 to 2.25 and also then changes the mileage at which you encounter the other climbs.
· Special considerations: If you wish to hike the Jericho Trail, it is shown on the Mattatuck State Forest map. The southern trailhead with roadside parking is located at 1300 Echo Lake Rd., Watertown. Directions: From Rt. 8 South, take Exit 37. Right on Echo Lake Rd. for about 0.7 miles. From Rt. 8 North, take Rt. 262 East for 0.6 miles, then left on Echo Lake Rd. for 0.8 miles.
JerichoTrail Notes:If you do the out and back hike from Echo Lake Road to the Leatherman’s Cave, this is a strenuous hike with four climbs in each direction. From 1.7 to 2 miles, the trail climbs from 520 ft. to 700 ft. of elevation. From 2.5 to 3.1 miles, the climb is from 520 to 775 ft. From 4.3 to 4.8 miles, the climb is from 520 to 710. From 5.2 to 5.9 miles, the climb is from 520 to 750 ft. There are numerous short climbs where footing is slippery in wet and icy conditions, so this hike is best done when conditions are dry.
· Mattatuck Trail: Mattatuck Trail, Route 109 to Slab Meadow Road, with a return on Slab Meadow Road and Pitch Road, Morris
· Why you should hike this section: This is a fairly mellow hike along the Mattatuck Trail across land owned by the Waterbury Water Department with a return along low-traffic roads that have views of the Pitch and Morris Reservoirs.
· Starting Location/Parking: Use 410 Thomaston Road (Route 109), Morris, as your destination, which should bring you to Route 109 at Pitch Road. Park along the shoulder of Pitch Road, a dirt road north of Route 109.
· Directions: Rt. 8 to Exit 38. From Rt. 8 North, turn left onto S. Main St., and left onto Pine Hill Road and then straight across onto Rt. 109 West for 4 miles. Right on Pitch Road and park along the shoulder. From Rt. 8 South, head directly onto Rt. 6 West and bear right onto Rt. 109 West and follow as above
· Map link: The trail and roads may be viewed on the CFPA Interactive Online map or in the Connecticut Walk Book.
· Trail Descriptions: The Mattatuck Trail has only moderate climbs and descents in this area. Slab Meadow Road and Pitch Road are pleasant country lanes with a dirt surface that receive minimal traffic.
· Suggested Hike: Follow the Mattatuck Trail north along Pitch Road. In 0.2 miles, the trail turns left into the woods along Slab Meadow Brook, which has some small cascades. At mile 1.0, cross Farnhard Road (dirt). At mile 2.0, turn right on Slab Meadow Road (dirt). At 2.2 miles, turn right on Pitch Road (dirt), which closely parallels the border of Pitch Reservoir. At the Morris Reservoir, Pitch Road bends to the west, away from the water views. At 4.2 miles, arrive back at the pull-off parking area.
For those desiring a long hike, continuing on the Mattatuck Trail past Slab Meadow Road leads into the White Memorial Conservation Center in another 0.5 miles where the Mattatuck Trail loops past a series of ponds.
· GPS track: To be added at a later date (and that could be years before I get back to this hike).
· Safety concerns: None really, just be aware of the occasional motor vehicle along the roads.
· Special considerations: Parking may be a challenge in snowy and icy conditions. I once parked along the road in snow and it took time to get enough traction to free my car’s wheels, which had difficulty getting traction on the slippery surface.
If you decided to explore the Mattatuck Trail to the south, the stream crossing south of Route 109 can be impossible at times of high water. Unlike the section north of Route 109, the section along the Wigwam Reservoir to the south to the Black Rock Lake section is challenging, consisting of a series of climbs and descents with some poor footing on the sharp uphills and downhills that the trail traverses. There are numerous stream crossings, some of which are wide and challenging, and there are no bridges. The hike in this area also has no options for a loop, as there are no other trails or roads in the area. The hike is worth doing, just be aware of these challenges.
· Mattatuck Trail: Mattatuck Trail, Mohawk Pond boat launch, Camp Road, Cornwall to the Mohawk Trail on Mohawk Mountain
· Why you should go: This section of the Mattatuck Trail features Mohawk Mountain. The trail traverses the top of Mohawk Mountain with excellent views, passes the stone Cunningham Tower (which has no stairs and cannot be climbed) and the steel Mohawk Mountain Tower (used for antennas and is not accessible). The former Lookout Tower has been torn down, but its footings remain. Along the slopes of the mountain, visit the Black Spruce Bog. There is easy footing on the return by following Wadhams Road most of the way back to Mohawk Pond.
· Starting Location/Parking: There is room for about 10 to 12 cars here. Obviously, there are likely to be people using the boat launch for fishing in the warmer months.
· Directions: Route 8 North, Exit 44 to Route 4 West for 8.3 miles. Left on Milton Rd. for 1 miles. Right on State Forest Rd. for 2.2 miles. Right on Great Hill Rd. for 0.4 miles. Right on Camp Rd. (YMCA Camp Mohawk sign on corner) for 0.4 miles, and next right on boat launch access road to the end.
From Kent, take Route 7 North to Route 4 East for 4.2 miles. Sharp right on Great Hollow Rd. for 1.7 miles. Left on Great Hill Rd. for 2.3 miles. Left on Camp Rd. (YMCA Camp Mohawk sign on corner) for 0.4 miles, and next right on boat launch access road to the end.
· Map link: Note on the state maps, which were last updated in 2003, the Blue Trail is listed as the Mohawk Trail. This is incorrect south of Mohawk Mountain, where the Blue Trail is the Mattatuck Trail. The maps are correct in naming the trail north of this junction as the Mohawk Trail, but the northern map fails to show the Mohawk Trail heading west to Great Hollow Road. (The southern map does not show this section of the forest.)Use the summer maps, as the winter maps also indicate where people can snowmobile, which adds visual clutter to the map: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Forests/Mohawk-Mountain-State-Forest-State-Park/Maps
· Trail Descriptions: The hike has steady climb from Mohawk Pond (1,180 ft.) to Mohawk Mountain (1,680 ft.) The return route along Wadhams Road, which is a low traffic dirt road, has a two-step descent with a short climb to link the downhills.
· Suggested Hike: This 6.5 mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain highlights the Mohawk Mountain section of the Mattatuck Trail, traveling up thesouth slope of the mountain, crossing the mountain and the adjacent peak to the west called the Pinnacle.
From the boat launch, follow the Blue-Blazed Mattatuck Trail along the east side of the pond for 0.5 miles, then turn right for 0.15 miles as the trail follows Wadhams Road. Follow the Blue Trail as it turns left off Wadhams Rd. (dirt), heading north for 0.8 miles. The trail briefly overlaps Wadhams Road (again), but then again turns left off the road. In 0.35 miles, the trail passes Mohawk Tower. Continuing north, the trail crosses Tornado Road in 0.65 miles, then arrives at Cunningham Tower in 0.4 miles. Just beyond the tower, the trail turns left and follows Toumey Road (paved). Where the road turns right, the Mattatuck Trail continues north, passes Lookout Tower, and ends at the Mohawk Trail at the top of Mohawk Mountain Ski Area in 0.3 miles from Cunningham Tower. Be sure to hike to the top by the ski lifts for the view.
*** From the top of the mountain, turn right to head east on the Blue-Blazed Mohawk Trail for 0.3 miles, then leave the trail behind by going right on Toumey Road and hiking south for 0.2 miles. Turn left on Mohawk Mountain Road (paved) and go 0.2 miles. Turn left to hike the Black Spruce Bog Trail, which is a 0.3-mile out and back, mostly on a boardwalk. When you return to the road, continue straight onto Wadhams Rd. (dirt) heading south for 1.8 miles. The Mattatuck Trail will briefly share the road, coming in from the west, overlapping the road a short distance, then departing to the east. Near Mohawk Pond, the Mattatuck Trail will join from the east, and then head south back toward the pond. At this junction, turn right to follow the Blue Trail back to the boat launch parking area.
*** For a longer hike (adding another 3 miles out and back to view the giant pine trees in Cathedral Pines Preserve), follow these directions:
From the Mattatuck Trail at the junction with the Mohawk Trail, turn left to head west on the Mohawk Trail. In about half a mile, the Mohawk Trail follows a gravel road, which may be muddy. The Mohawk Trail follows two paved roads before entering the Cathedral Pines Preserve. Turn right on Great Hollow Road in 0.8 miles from the Mattatuck Trail junction. In another 0.1 miles, turn right on Essex Hill Road and in another 0.1 miles turn right into the woods and soon enter the Cathedral Pines Preserve. The preserve ends in another 0.3 miles, again at Essex Hill Road. From this trailhead, make a U-turn and return on the Mohawk Trail back to the junction with the Mattatuck Trail to resume the original loop.
Cathedral Pines is an area of old growth evergreen trees that was devastated by a tornado on July 10, 1989, knocking down the largest trees, but leaving behind many other impressive specimens. The Nature Conservancy, which owns the property, chose to leave the fallen trees as a way of studying forest regeneration, rather than logging the area. Articles and photos:
· GPS track: This track starts from Mohawk Mountain, but the preferred route is to start as Mohawk Pond, as described in these notes. This track does not include the spur to Cathedral Pines: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/5020041283
· Safety concerns: With some steep sections along Mohawk Mountain, this hike is likely to have slippery sections in snowy and icy conditions.
· Special considerations: None
White Memorial Conservation Center, Litchfield
· Why you should go: This 4,000 acre preserve has 35 miles of trails, including a boardwalk through a marsh. There are numerous ponds with trails around them. The Blue-Blazed Mattatuck Trail is part of the trail system. The Bantam River passes through the property before emptying into Bantam Lake. The woods have an old growth feel with towering trees. The numerous trails mean you can return multiple times and see something new. With modest changes in elevation and good footing throughout, the preserve can be hiked in any weather conditions. When it snows, go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. There is also a nature museum with exhibits about the animals and plants you might see in the preserve.
· Starting Location/Parking: White Memorial has numerous trailheads. Any place a trail intersects a paved road, there is probably some room to park. Three trailheads are described here. The main parking area is located by the museum at 140 Whitehall Rd., (off Rt. 202) Litchfield.
TheBeaver Pond Trail trailhead is located at 330 Alain White Rd., Morris, 0.2 miles north of East Shore Road, or 1.1 mile south of Bissell Road.
The Cranberry Swamp trailhead is located at 660 South Plains Road (Rt. 63), Litchfield, just north of the Morris town line. There is a blue oval sign for the Mattatuck Trail near the parking lot. This gravel parking lot holds may 6 to 8 cars.
· Map link: A map can be downloaded from the website at http://www.whitememorialcc.org/ but due to the map’s size, it is better to buy a paper copy from the museum.
· Trail Descriptions: All woods roads are described by their blaze color and shape with the trail abbreviation in parentheses. Some blazes may not appear until well beyond the trail intersection. The woods roads west of the stone pillars are open to traffic. The trails are mostly wide woods roads, excepting the Plunge Pool Trail, which is a narrow footpath. The elevation gains are generally minimal to modest, excepting a climb on the Mattatuck Trail from Rt. 63 to the junction with the Heron Pond Tr., a gain in elevation from 910 ft. to 1,150 ft. Total elevation gain is 800 ft. The trail names and descriptions may be found on the official White Memorial Conservation Center Map.
· Suggested Hike: From the trailhead for Cranberry Swamp, walk north along Route 63 following the Blue-Blazed Mattatuck Trail and cross Route 63 (paying attention to the fast-moving traffic) to explore the ponds along the east side of Route 63. From this trailhead, you could also hike the trails on the west side of Route 63 south of Cranberry Swamp.
· GPS tracks:
This is an 8.7 mile loop hike from the museum parking lot to Beaver Pond with 800 feet of elevation gain: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/4413065
This is a 5.6 mile loop from the museum parking lot to Little Pond and Windmill Hill with 400 feet of elevation gain: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/7781327
This 7.5-mile loop hike from the Beaver Pond Trail trailhead at 330 Alain White Rd., Morris, and goes to Cranberry Swamp, Heron Pond, and Teal Pond. This loop has 700 feet of climbing: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1018790406
· Safety concerns: None
· Special considerations: With so many trails and trail colors, it is easy to get lost, so pay attention to the map and the markings as you hike.
Whittemore Sanctuary, Woodbury
· Why you should go: The 686-acre Whittemore Sanctuary offers beautiful, ever-changing scenery under a forested canopy containing many tall trees. There are views of Lake Quassapaug, plus a bog that resembles a pond, and also a small pond. Some trails are lined with rugged rock formations. Other than a short stretch of the White Trail paralleling Route 64, the woods are peaceful and secluded. Footing is good throughout and while there is a steady climb to the top of Blackmans Hill, there are no steep climbs. Except for a few small patches of invasive plants near the entrance, the woods contain a healthy variety of native plants.
· Starting Location/Parking: The Whittemore Sanctuary is located at465 Sherman Hill Road (Route 64), Woodbury, 0.7 miles west of Quassy Amusement Park. The large sign for the preserve is set back from the road to the west of the entrance. There is parking for about 20 cars in the dirt lot with room to squeeze another five cars along the side of the entrance road.
· Directions: I-84 East, Exit 16 to Route 188 North for 1.6 miles. Left on Christian Rd. for 1.1 miles. Left on Route 64 for 0.7 miles. Right into the sanctuary driveway. I-84 West, Exit 17 to Route 64 East for 5.4 miles. Right into the sanctuary driveway. From the south, take Route 8, Exit 22 to Route 67 West for 5.2 miles. Right on Christian St. for 5.7 miles. Left on Route 64 for 0.7 miles. Right into the sanctuary driveway
· Website and Map links:
https://flandersnaturecenter.org/preserves-sanctuaries/
http://flandersnaturecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/whittemore_sanctuary.pdf
· Trail Descriptions: Trails are clearly marked with painted blazes. There are wooden number markers along the trails, including at junctions that are indicated on the map available at the map kiosk. Trail junctions are also marked with maps with the label “You Are Here.” Trails vary from woods roads with smooth footing to narrower hiking trails with some minor rocky areas. The Blue Trail has uneven, rocky footing and along the bog may partially be underwater; follow the unblazed trail along higher ground to bypass the short, low section. Some trail sections pass through low-lying soggy areas where plank boardwalks keep boots dry. There is some road noise and views of the road from the White Trail where it parallels Route 64. The preserve is otherwise peaceful and secluded. The White Trail and the Red Trail both have long, steady uphills to the top of Blackmans Hill.
· Suggested Hikes: The 8.7 mile loop uses almost all the trails in the preserve and has 1,000 feet of elevation gain. The hike can easily be shortened to 4.3 miles by skipping the second loop and has 500 ft. of elevation gain. A 6.4-mile option does a partial second loop with 700 ft. of elevation gain.
From the parking lot, pick up the White Trail to the left of the map kiosk and follow it clockwise. Right on the Orange Trail at mile 0.2, then right again on the White Trail at mile 0.6 (or just stay on the White Trail). The White Trail will pass the Yellow (mile 1.7), Red (mile 2.4) and Purple Trails (mile 2.8). For the shortest hike, continue straight back to the parking lot at the junction with Blue at mile 4.3.
For the second loop with 6.4 or 8.7 miles:Just before the parking lot, turn right on the Blue Trail (mile 4.3), following it through several twists and turns. At the northwest corner of the bog, turn right to follow the Yellow Trail west at mile 5.3.
For the 6.4-mile loop:At mile 5.9, cross the unblazed East-West Road to continue straight on the Blue Trail. By the pond, bear left onto the Green Trail at mile 6.1, passing through a tall pine forest. At the end of Green, turn right on White at mile 6.3, returning to the parking lot at mile 6.4.
For the 8.7-mile loop:At the end of Yellow, turn left on the unblazed East-West Road at mile 5.9, then turn left again to hike north on the Red Trail at mile 6.1. At the top of Blackmans Hill, turn left to hike south on White at mile 6.9. At the bog, turn left to follow the Yellow Trail at mile 7.6. Continue straight on the Blue Trail, crossing the unblazed East-West Road heading south at mile 8.3. By the pond, bear left onto the Green Trail at mile 8.4, passing through a tall pine forest. At the end of Green, turn right on White at mile 8.6, returning to the parking lot at mile 8.7.
GPS track: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/6125270808
· Safety concerns: None.
· Special considerations: The entry driveway to parking area is VERY easy to miss because it is a narrow, gravel road with no clear markings. The preserve sign located about 50 west of the entrance, while large, is not obvious to someone unfamiliar with the area, in part because it is parallel to the road.
· Other properties: The other major hiking area owned by Flanders is the 200-acre Van Vleck Farm and Nature Sanctuary on Church Hill Road, which can be paired with the 28 acre Fleming Preserve on Cowles Road, both in Woodbury. The two preserves can easily be linked by a 0.3-mile walk along Cowles Road, which is a quiet dirt road.
The trails through the farm pass through a series of fields and hardwood forests with a few patches of evergreens. The Fleming trails are mostly through a hardwood forest with a small field along the Yellow Trail loop. Unfortunately, the farm property trails has large numbers of invasive plants along them, particularly those in the field. The invaders are the usual suspects: sharp-thorned multi-flora rose, autumn olive, winged euonymus (burning bush), tick-harboring Japanese barberry, and the strangling Asiatic bittersweet vines.
There are three ponds on the Van Vleck property with the largest about 10 acres in size with the second one about 0.6 acres and the smallest is only about 0.1 acres.
Trails on both preserves have good footing throughout, including a boardwalk by the smallest pond. Trails are well marked, although blazes are limited in the field sections. There are signboards with maps indicating “You Are Here” at major trail junctions. Terrain is rolling throughout with the only steep section being a climb on the Red Trail that is a modest 50 feet of elevation gain. Hiking all the trails on both properties, which would include some back and forth on trails to connect all the dots would yield a hike of about 5 to 6 miles with 700 feet of elevation gain.
Overall, these preserves rate as a pleasant woods stroll lacking any exceptional features that would make them worthy of a long drive to get there. Flanders conducts workshops on a regular basis at these properties, which would probably be the best way to experience them.
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