385.5 acres in Guilford, CT
Parking: Large lot near 319 Rte 80, Guilford, CT
Trail Map Trails: 1.63 miles Trail Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Rating: ★★☆☆☆
This is one of the many patchwork parcels that make up the Cockaponset State Forest, Connecticut’s second largest state forest. This property is trailed entirely by the blue blaze Menunkatuck Trail part of the larger 215 mile New England Trail. The property is adjacent to the Guilford Sportsman’s Association so you can expect to hear gunshots from the nearby range while hiking here.
I hiked this property as part of my north bound New England Trail hike in Fall 2024. The trail is pretty standard for Connecticut state forests, a wide easy walking old forest road. After about 0.5 miles you’ll reach a “cave” noted on the print versions of the Menunkatuck trail map. I can’t in good conscience add it to my list of caves, because even by Connecticut standards this cave is pretty weak. A large erratic with a small overhang and a low stick fence as been built around the base.
Past the cave the terrain is a bit more rolling and the gunshot get a bit louder. You’ll soon reach Hart Rd, the driveway for the Sportsman’s Association, and turn right on it for 0.1 before turning off just before the Sportsman’s gate. From there is another old forest road until reaching Regional Water Authority property.
Heading north: Genessee Recreation Area
Heading south: Timberlands
The last sale date on record is May 2018, which can’t be the correct date for acquisition.
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 13th, 2024
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