17.68 acres in Coventry, CT
Parking: Shoulder parking near 90 Cooper Lane, Coventry, CT
Trail Map Trails: 0.6 miles Trail Difficulty: Moderate Rating: ★★☆☆☆
The Couch Preserve is a simple 0.6 mile lollipop loop. The backside of the loop features a hemlock grove and there is a new connection to Coventry’s Williams Preserve for an additional three miles of trail.
From the shoulder parking the trail heads down the access trail between stonewalls and private property. This access trail became narrow and overgrown on my recent visit heads down through a sea of invasive barberry. Thankfully just as the loop begins the forest changes into pine and largely open understory. Along the backside of the loop is a mossy old stone wall and what appears to be a natural spring.
From here is a gentle climb through thick ferns to pass the white blazed access trail to the Williams Preserve. I typically combine the two on my hikes here for nearly 3 miles. The trail makes its way back to the entrance trail reentering the barberry sea.
Preserved in May 1996 when it was donated by Elizabeth Couch. I believe Elizabeth Couch was Dorothy Wiley and I apologize if she or the family intended to be a step removed from recognition.
Dorothy Elizabeth (Couch) Wiley (1918-1996) attended UCONN, married Gilbert Wiley in 1939, and operated Somerset Farms in Somers, CT for 25 years before moving to New Hampshire.
Peter Marteka – Making Connections Along the Banks of the Willimantic River (2018)
The information shown here is for general reference purposes only. exploreCT.org gives no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or reliability of this data. Parking in all areas, whether designated here or not, is at your own risk. exploreCT.org is not responsible for any damage or loss to vehicles or contents. Last updated October 2nd, 2018
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