Beth Lapin

Field Forest, owned by Connecticut Forest and Park Association (the group responsible for maintaining all the CT Blue Trails), covers a diverse set of habitats. One of its most interesting spring features are its vernal pools.

Descriptions, maps, and directions: https://www.cttrailfinder.com/trails/trail/field-forest-trails

REMEMBER: Follow basic hiking guidelines: Wear good shoes, bring water and simple first aid kit, plus a copy/phone photo of trail map. Check the weather ahead of time, if you go alone, let others know where/when you’re going. All participation is at your own risk. Find a nearby restaurant or ice cream shop to reward yourself after your hike!

HIKING HINTS is a program of the MIDDLETOWN CT REC office. Follow them on Facebook.

Photo: Matt, Explore CT

Black Pond, at the base of the trap rock ridge that forms Higby Mountain, provides a trail head that connects to the Mattabesett Trail and continues south. Hike to the overlook or continue as long as you wish.

Descriptions, maps, and directions: https://explorect.org/black-pond/

REMEMBER: Follow basic hiking guidelines: Wear good shoes, bring water and simple first aid kit, plus a copy/phone photo of trail map. Check the weather ahead of time, if you go alone, let others know where/when you’re going. All participation is at your own risk. Find a nearby restaurant or ice cream shop to reward yourself after your hike!

HIKING HINTS is a program of the MIDDLETOWN CT REC office. Follow them on Facebook.