Woodlot Sanctuary

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Trail Description

This location offers a series of intersecting loops marked with either an orange trail head (northern half of trails) or a yellow trail head (southern half of trails).  The outer perimeter was approximately 0.85 miles with a 52 ft elevation change.  Total mileage of trails, if all trails are traversed, is approximately 1.25 miles with 70 ft elevation gain.  These trails are packed earth/dirt with occasional grass and minimal rocks, are easy in difficulty, pet friendly (dog on leash), located in Stonington, OF NOTE we did see a coyote but it was non-threatening and kept a distance of 100 ft + away, width of trails ranged from 2-3 feet wide to as wide as 20 feet.  Expect solitude on this beautiful nature trail.

More Info

The permanent protection of the land now named “The Woodlot Sanctuary” was made possible by the generous donations of two local families: The Bates and Frohn families.

Three lots totaling approximately 29 acres include a variety of habitats.  Much of the central portion is upland forest featuring rocky outcrops and glacial erratics.  The landscape shows a history of varied forestry practices over decades.  It is now dominated by oak and beech with hickory, sassafras, and scattered evergreens as well, and offers an excellent understory of huckleberry and lowbush blueberry.  The eastern border is comprised of wetlands that emerge into a brook that flows ultimately into Stonington Harbor; wetlands in the western portion drain directly into the Deans Mill Reservoir. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife including several species which have special status in CT. Box turtles and spotted turtles have been found on the property. Red-shouldered hawks and broad-winged hawks are regular nesters as well.   

There is an established trail system with two loops and connectors to a small off-street parking lot.