Paffard Woods

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Trail Description

Ample parking with access to a beautiful trail that is a series of two intersecting loops with an additional, off circle trail that is an in-and-out leading to view of water/coastal wetlands.  The largest loop (outer perimeter) is approximately 1.25 miles with a 135 ft elevation gain.  The shorter loop is approximately 0.7 miles with a 80 ft elevation gain.  The off circle/straight in-and-out to the cove is 0.6 miles total (round trip, in-and-out) with a 80 ft elevation gain.  All trails are marked well with blue trail heads and have multiple standalone maps spread throughout the trail (clearly marking and aiding the hiker on their travels).  These trails are packed earth/dirt trails will some exposed rocks and roots to add some challenges.  The trails occasionally pass over streams/creeks and there are occasional glacial erratics/stone walls and wood platform bridges.  The trail is pet friendly (dog on leash), located in Stonington, good for bird watching with occasional ground animals (chipmunks, squirrels, etc.).  Trail width ranges from as small as 1-2 feet to as wide as 15 feet.  While there may be other cars in the parking lot, the trail is diverse and may offer seclusion.  

More Info

This preserve is located in the Town of Stonington, Connecticut, on the west side of North Main Street. The entrance to the preserve with a gravel parking area is located on North Main Street approximately 1/2 mile north of Route 1.

The preserve offers diverse terrain ranging from a heavily wooded glacial valley in the northern portion to a salt marsh on a tidal cove at the southern edge. Other distinguishing features include many glacial erratics, large trees, a white pine grove, wetlands crossed by bridges, and a cultivated field.