Hartford Area Hiking™

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Please pay attention to the parking location. We are heading up the falls cut off near the Light House cemetery. I would suggest stopping at the restrooms at the main parking area. Then leave the lot and and turn left. The parking is on the left side of the road.

The hike is approximately 5-7 miles with the first half climbing out of the valley and then heading back down. There is a variety of wooded conditions from rocky to gentle paths. Due to the climbing-lots of climbing and distance, I would NOT classify this as a beginner hike-it is listed moderate. You should assess your ability to 2 miles per hours. I am all for stopping to catch your breath and taking photos. It is not a race.

You have signed up for a group hike so we hike as a group. We will keep the entire group in view. We leave no one behind and adjust the pace accordingly. Trail runners need not attend.

I always recommend hiking boots and a day pack with water, snacks, a whistle, small medical kit. I love hiking poles but they are not required. You are going to be burning calories the entire hike so please bring FOOD and WATER. Breakfast alone may not be enough. Also the sweating may require a gatorade style drink.

Please bring traction devices. I am not sure what kind of trail conditions we will encounter. Cold weather is here so synthetic layers need to worn-not cotton.

Dogs are allowed on a leash.
Items you must consider for every event:

• If you have an event after a hike, please do not sign up for the hike.
• End times are only an estimate.
• The group will not adjust speed or trail route to accommodate your schedule.
• If you cannot attend an event, please cancel 48 hours before. Late cancellations are rude and take away the option for others to join the event.
• Be a good hiking human.

https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/stateparks/maps/Peoplespdf.pdf

All trails map of the loop
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/connecticut/falls-cutoff-jessie-girard-charles-pack-bowen-loop-trail?mobileMap=false&ref=sidebar-static-map

Google through the Meetup site has not been working. Here is a map link to the different hiking trail head.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Barkhamsted+Lighthouse+Archaeological+Preserve/@41.9424525,-73.0261901,15z/data=!4m9!1m2!2m1!1speples+forest+falls+cutoff+trailhead+barkhamsted+ct!3m5!1s0x89e70bcdba54aeb3:0x132412256ede5a5a!8m2!3d41.9424525!4d-73.0071367!16s%2Fg%2F11dx8g_70s?authuser=0&entry=ttu

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By clicking on "Yes" for this event you agree, warrant, and covenant as follows:
COVID19 Consideration: There is an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 in any public place where other people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and even death. By voluntarily participating in an event organized by Hartford Area Hiking you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.

In consideration for accepting this entry, I, the registrant, intending to be legally bound, hereby, for myself, my heirs, my executors and administrators, do waive and release any and all rights for damages I may have against any parties or persons connected with the Hartford Area Hiking meetup group for and related to the above listed event. I attest and verify that I am physically fit to participate in any portion of this above listed event. I grant Hartford Area Hiking permission to use any photographs, film or videotapes of this event for any purpose. I further attest that I, the registrant, am fully and completely responsible for any guests that I bring to the event, whether registered or not.

McLean Game Refuge is a beautiful place to hike and enjoy the outdoors. This will be a beginner level hike. The trails are kind and not technical.

If you are getting into hiking and looking for a kind event to try out trails, you are the right person to attend. We have many trails to choose from. The thought is to do a 3-5 mile event. We can adjust based on the group.

We are in colder temps. Please do not wear Jeans or sweatshirts or sneakers. You should wear synthetic clothing in layers. (You can find some items at WalMart). I still recommend boots that for this event. We may find snow and ice. If you have traction devices, please bring them.
Please send me a message if you have a dog that you want to bring. Please no children.
Items you must consider for every event:

• If you have an event after a hike, please do not sign up for the hike.
• End times are only an estimate.
• The group will not adjust speed or trail route to accommodate your schedule.
• If you cannot attend an event, please cancel 48 hours before. Late cancellations are rude and take away the option for others to join the event.
• Be a good hiking human

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/connecticut/mclean-game-refuge-blue-and-purple-loop

https://mcleancare.org/game-refuge/recreation/

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HAH COVID update for this event
Any attendees who have tested positive, have symptoms or have been in direct contact with an infected person should not attend.
By clicking on "Yes" for this event you agree, warrant, and covenant as follows:

In consideration for accepting this entry, I, the registrant, intending to be legally bound, hereby, for myself, my heirs, my executors and administrators, do waive and release any and all rights for damages I may have against any parties or persons connected with the Hartford Area Hiking meetup group for and related to the above listed event. I attest and verify that I am physically fit to participate in any portion of this above listed event. I grant Hartford Area Hiking permission to use any photographs, film or videotapes of this event for any purpose. I further attest that I, the registrant, am fully and completely responsible for any guests that I bring to the event, whether registered or not.

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You need to have hiking experience for this event due to elevation and distance. Please don't be a first time ever hiker.

We are going to cross and head out to the Broom Stick Ledges area, cross route 77 and head to summit Totoket Mountain and then back to cars.

We will head down to route 77 on the Durham Guilford line for the Lone Pine Trail connected to the Mattabesett Trail-a blue blaze trail. This will be a 7 mile hike. We will find the headwater of the Cognichaug River to the top of Totoket Mountain at a blistering 720 ft.

This is going to be a loop. As you get to the big intersection, with Rts 79, 17, and 77, head down 77 south. About 4 miles down you will see a parking area on the left. DON'T PARK THERE. Continue down the road to a parking area about a mile down on the right. This is the beginning and end of the hike.

Bathroom info-none at the trail head-there is a Dunkin Donuts at the three route intersection.

You need a pack with water, snacks, and dress in layers. Please bring traction devices. I am not sure what kind of trail conditions we will encounter. I STRONGLY recommend waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. Cold weather is here so synthetic layers need to be worn. No jeans and no sneakers. There will be lots to photograph too.

For this hike, dogs on leashes and no children please. You will need to assess your ability to complete this hike. There is no place to bale out early. I am estimating that this will take no more than 4 hours. Please do not schedule your day with say a 2:00 event. We hike as a group so if that does not appeal to you please pass on this event. You must be able to keep a 2 mile an hour pace.

Items you must consider for every event:

• If you have an event after a hike, please do not sign up for the hike.
• End times are only an estimate.
• The group will not adjust speed or trail route to accommodate your schedule.
• If you cannot attend an event, please cancel 48 hours before. Late cancellations are rude and take away the option for others to join the event.
• Be a good hiking human

https://connecticutexplorer.blogspot.com/2013/09/mattabesset-trail-bluff-head-lone-pine.html

--- Legal Stuff ---
HAH COVID update for this event
Any attendees who have tested positive, have symptoms or have been in direct contact with an infected person should not attend.

By clicking on "Yes" for this event you agree, warrant, and covenant as follows:

In consideration for accepting this entry, I, the registrant, intending to be legally bound, hereby, for myself, my heirs, my executors and administrators, do waive and release any and all rights for damages I may have against any parties or persons connected with the Hartford Area Hiking meetup group for and related to the above listed event. I attest and verify that I am physically fit to participate in any portion of this above listed event. I grant Hartford Area Hiking permission to use any photographs, film or videotapes of this event for any purpose. I further attest that I, the registrant, am fully and completely responsible for any guests that I bring to the event, whether registered or not.

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/c/2/c/600_449975884.jpeg

This is Christmas Eve. Hopefully the early start gives you time for this hike and other plans. This hike has become a tradition. Hubbard Park will be decorated and have out their Christmas animals.

Please have hiking experience for this event. Elevation and distance are notable.

We will do at least a 5 mile loop that will include the Castle Craig and West Peak. This park has the whole variety of terrain from groomed trails to aggressive climbs with loose rocks.

When you get off exit 4 on Rt. 691, there are signs to direct you to the park. As you head down the hill though, there is no great perpendicular sign to the park entrance. You my see the pond and fountains and have to turn around. When you enter the park, the pond will be on your right. Park in the big lot just past the pond. There are port-o-potties.

Most of the hike will be well traveled wide trails. There is a bunch of climbing. If you want to get the view from the castle, you will have to earn it. The climb to the top is aggressive and all loose rocks. Totally worth it though.

I recommend boots and a pack including water, snacks, layered clothing, whistle. Traction devices may be needed. I am thinking ice. No Jeans or sneakers

The park requires dogs to be on leashes. No kids.

Items you must consider for every event:

• If you have an event after a hike, please do not sign up for the hike.
• End times are only an estimate.
• The group will not adjust speed or trail route to accommodate your schedule.
• If you cannot attend an event, please cancel 48 hours before. Late cancellations are rude and take away the option for others to join the event.
• Be a good hiking human.

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I want to remind folks to read the hike description and assess your abilities. This is NOT a beginner-I have been laying on the couch-C level hike.

The terrain is rocky and uneven with many steep ups and downs.

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http://www.meridenlandtrust.com/Hubbard_quad.pdf

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--- Legal Stuff ---
HAH COVID update for this event
Any attendees who have tested positive, have symptoms or have been in direct contact with an infected person should not attend.

By clicking on "Yes" for this event you agree, warrant, and covenant as follows:

In consideration for accepting this entry, I, the registrant, intending to be legally bound, hereby, for myself, my heirs, my executors and administrators, do waive and release any and all rights for damages I may have against any parties or persons connected with the Hartford Area Hiking meetup group for and related to the above listed event. I attest and verify that I am physically fit to participate in any portion of this above listed event. I grant Hartford Area Hiking permission to use any photographs, film or videotapes of this event for any purpose. I further attest that I, the registrant, am fully and completely responsible for any guests that I bring to the event, whether registered or not.

The Salmon River Trail begins at the Comstock Bridge and travels to Day Pond State Park. There is a 2.9 mile closed loop that goes to the south loop. A 2.0 leg connects the south loop back to the bridge. Total distance will be about 7 miles. The trails are well traveled with moderate climbs. We will detour to the waterfall.

You should bring a pack with snacks, water, layered non cotton clothing, hiking boots-waterproof as the bare minimum. As the event gets closer suggestions will be made based on weather and trail conditions. Consider getting microspikes if winter hiking appeals to you.

No children please. Well mannered dogs are ok.
There are no bathrooms at this trailhead.

Items you must consider for every event:

• If you have an event after a hike, please do not sign up for the hike.
• End times are only an estimate.
• The group will not adjust speed or trail route to accommodate your schedule.
• If you cannot attend an event, please cancel 48 hours before. Late cancellations are rude and take away the option for others to join the event.
• Be a good hiking human.

https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/stateparks/maps/DayPond2015rpdf.pdf

--- Legal Stuff ---
HAH COVID update for this event
Any attendees who have tested positive, have symptoms or have been in direct contact with an infected person should not attend.

By clicking on "Yes" for this event you agree, warrant, and covenant as follows:

In consideration for accepting this entry, I, the registrant, intending to be legally bound, hereby, for myself, my heirs, my executors and administrators, do waive and release any and all rights for damages I may have against any parties or persons connected with the Hartford Area Hiking meetup group for and related to the above listed event. I attest and verify that I am physically fit to participate in any portion of this above listed event. I grant Hartford Area Hiking permission to use any photographs, film or videotapes of this event for any purpose. I further attest that I, the registrant, am fully and completely responsible for any guests that I bring to the event, whether registered or not.

PLEASE KNOW THAT END TIMES ARE AN ESTIMATE. THE GROUP WILL NOT ADJUST PACE TO ACCOMMODATE ANYONE WHO HAS OVER BOOKED THEIR DAY. GROUP HIKING IS ABOUT THE ENTIRE GROUP AND BEING FLEXIBLE.

Happy New Year to All. This event is for beginners and first times hikers. All levels are is welcome.

We will hike Sessions Woods Preserve in Burlington. We will make this a 3.5 mile loop on the groomed trail that circles the park. We will check out the beaver pond, the waterfall and the fire tower.

The Sessions Woods preserve has a large sign on the road. When you pull in the road doubles back, at the top of the hill turn left into the parking area. There will be a bunch of state vehicles and a large building with flags. If the preserve is open, there will be a bathroom. There have been port-o-potties on the property this season. I will park somewhere in the middle and have my back gate up.

You need to bring pack that includes water, snacks, winter gear, possibly traction devices. I will check closer to the date with the weather. Please no children.

ttp://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2723&q=326220&deepNav_GID=1655%20 (http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2723&q=326220&deepNav_GID=1655%20)

http://www.ct.gov/deep/lib/deep/wildlife/pdf_files/maps/maps_other/swtrail.pdf

We are in the bear's home so will be loud and leave them alone.

--- Legal Stuff ---
HAH COVID update for this event
Any attendees who have tested positive, have symptoms or have been in direct contact with an infected person should not attend.

COVID AGREEMENT:
There is an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 in any public place where other people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and even death. By voluntarily participating in an event hosted by the Hartford Area Hiking you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19. If you test positive for COVID in the next 14 days, you agree to contact the hike leader who will provide contact tracing information.
By clicking on "Yes" for this event you agree, warrant, and covenant as follows:

In consideration for accepting this entry, I, the registrant, intending to be legally bound, hereby, for myself, my heirs, my executors and administrators, do waive and release any and all rights for damages I may have against any parties or persons connected with the Hartford Area Hiking meetup group for and related to the above listed event. I attest and verify that I am physically fit to participate in any portion of this above listed event. I grant Hartford Area Hiking permission to use any photographs, film or videotapes of this event for any purpose. I further attest that I, the registrant, am fully and completely responsible for any guests that I bring to the event, whether registered or not.

It is time for my birthday and a hike to celebrate. This event is for beginners and first times hikers. All levels are is welcome.
Hidden Valley Preserve is a beautiful area that has many features to enjoy. There are views from the Pinnacle, the Shepaug river, the Thoreau Bridge, and the quartz mine. We will pull 6 miles out of the park. The terrain is very friendly but with up and downs.

You need to bring pack that includes water, snacks, winter gear, possibly traction devices. I will check in regarding the weather closer to the date. Please no children. I still recommend hiking boots.
There is no bathroom here.
Hopefully we can head out after to do birthday food. First thought is G WTavern-https://www.gwtavern.com/

Items you must consider for every event:

• If you have an event after a hike, please do not sign up for the hike.
• End times are only an estimate.
• The group will not adjust speed or trail route to accommodate your schedule.
• If you cannot attend an event, please cancel 48 hours before. Late cancellations are rude and take away the option for others to join the event.
• Be a good hiking human.

https://steeprockassoc.org/preserve/hidden-valley/

https://steeprockassoc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/HV-Website-Trail-Map-1.pdf

--- Legal Stuff ---
HAH COVID update for this event
Any attendees who have tested positive, have symptoms or have been in direct contact with an infected person should not attend.

By clicking on "Yes" for this event you agree, warrant, and covenant as follows:

In consideration for accepting this entry, I, the registrant, intending to be legally bound, hereby, for myself, my heirs, my executors and administrators, do waive and release any and all rights for damages I may have against any parties or persons connected with the Hartford Area Hiking meetup group for and related to the above listed event. I attest and verify that I am physically fit to participate in any portion of this above listed event. I grant Hartford Area Hiking permission to use any photographs, film or videotapes of this event for any purpose. I further attest that I, the registrant, am fully and completely responsible for any guests that I bring to the event, whether registered or not.