204 acres in Old Lyme, CT
Parking:
Trail Map Trails: 5.7 miles Rating: ★★★☆☆
This network of trails offers varied loop hikes highlighted by 100 foot cliffs, rocky ledge terrain, and picturesque cedar forest.
I started my hike from the east side Library Lane entrance heading down white blazed trail that was narrow but fairly well traveled along a rocky ridge. I scoffed a bit at the rocky ridge since the map had promised 100' cliffs but soon ate my words as the massive granite rock face came into view. I spent several minutes walking the base and staring up at the wall, definitely a brief gem.
I continued on the white trail past the red connection to do the outermost loop of the property. The trail passes down a shallow ravine belted with thick mud, I'd be curious what it looks like after a good rain. At the north end of the property as you meet the red trail the sound of I-95 meets your ears and while the terrain is interesting rolling with the occasional boulder even in the summer growth you can still see the passing traffic. Be careful to turn at the blue trail for the loop otherwise you'll continue on the red trail to the Jadon Drive entrance (a sign at the junction here would help).
The blue trail climbs to another ridge this one thick with mile-a-minute and barberry before descending to a picturesque cedar forest. I passed the orange, green and yellow blazed trails as I completed the blue loop with yet more rolling terrain, pine forest, and yes even a patch of cacti! I reconnected with the white trail to the cliffs to return to my car and hope to return soon to explore those inner trails.
From the town website,
"Another Champlain Farm South point of interest is the old roadway traveling along the ridge from the end of Meeting House Hill north toward I-95. Look carefully at sections of the road where it crosses exposed bedrock and you may be able to discover the tracks of old iron-wheeled carts that traversed the farms of the 17th and 18th centuries. They may have been carrying farm families to the church on Meeting House Hill near where the Old Lyme Country Club stands today!"
August 3rd, 2025. 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.
