Hours
Dawn to dusk

Conditions
There is a 1.5-mile loop trail that passes through a variety of habitats.

Things To Do
What to See: Plants
Walking along the trail, visitors first see the secondary growth of oak-beech forests that was once farmland. In the area are a number of large "wolf" trees, which are relics from the agricultural era when trees along the edges of fields could spread their branches. As the trail continues, it enters a cool, moist hemlock ravine containing a stream flowing across moss-covered rocks. The trail emerges from the shadows to stunning views of the cove and Duck Island. It then crosses drought-influenced pitch pine areas before returning to mixed hardwood forests of oaks and beech.

What to See: Animals
Look for osprey and waterfowl in the brackish marsh.

Plan Your Visit
Please enjoy your visit to this preserve. The Nature Conservancy welcomes passive recreation, including hiking, birding, canoeing, nature study and cross-country skiing.

To ensure those who visit after you are able to enjoy the same experience you have, please remember to stay on designated trails, pack out everything you brought in, and contact our office at: 203 568 6270 or [email protected] if you notice any problems.

To maintain the ecological integrity of the preserve, the following activities are not allowed: collection of plant or animal specimens, camping, fires, fishing, hunting, bicycling, and use of motorized vehicles. Pets are not allowed on Nature Conservancy preserves.

Directions

From I-95 north:

-Take I-395 to exit 79A to Route 2A east.

-After the bridge crossing the Thames River, stay on Route 2A to the center of Poquetanuck.

-Turn right onto Cider Mill Road, which turns into Avery Hill Road. The preserve's entrance is 0.9 miles ahead on the right.

Canoe access:

-Take Route 2A onto Cider Mill Road (Avery Hill), and take the second right onto Arrowhead Drive.

-Go to the end and turn right.  (Note: Low tides restrict water access, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.)