Pinchot Sycamore Tree Park
2.7 acres in Simsbury, CT
Parking: Medium sized lot near 20 Hartford Rd, Simsbury, CT
Trail Map Trails: No trails Rating: ★★★☆☆
Situated along the scenic banks of the Farmington River, the Pinchot Sycamore is a natural monument that captures the awe of visitors and locals alike. Recognized as the largest tree in the state and likely the oldest, this majestic American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is 99 ft tall, boasts a sprawling 141ft canopy, and a trunk circumference of 28.35 feet as of 2017. Thats a growth of over 2ft around and 4ft high since it was previously measured in 1998 and nearly 5ft around since it was dedicated in 1965.
The park centers around a medium sized gravel parking area with the Pinchot on one side and a smaller sibling on the other. There is a very short access path down to the Farmington River that can serve as a boat launch and on my August visit was a swimming spot for a few kids. There were also several groups who had set up chairs for picnics under the smaller tree.
History:
The tree is named in honor of Gifford Pinchot, a pioneering conservationist and the first Chief of the U.S. Forest Service. The Town of Simsbury has owned the land since at least 1977.
Links:
- Official Measurement Data (2017)
- CTMQ – The Pinchot Sycamore (2006)
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Last updated August 25th, 2024
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