Newtown Forest Association Ready To Begin Annual Hike Series

The Newtown Forest Association (NFA), Connecticut’s oldest private land trust, will be sponsoring monthly guided nature walks on some of its properties this summer. All residents are welcome; NFA membership is not required.

Hikes are scheduled for Saturday mornings, with rain dates set for the following day when necessary.

On June 3, the series will begin with a hike at Holcombe Preserve, the headquarters for NFA at 55 Great Hill Road. Subsequent programs are also planned for July 15 at Hattertown Pond, with parking at the corner of Castle Meadow and Maltbie roads; August 19, Nettleton Preserve, 15-25 Castle Hill Road (watch for signs for parking); September 16, Holcombe Memorial Trail; October 14, Bruno Preserve, Taunton Hill Road; and October 21, Holcombe Preserve.

Since NFA’s formation in 1924, the association has served to protect more than 1,000 acres within Newtown.  These preserved properties provide for some of the most spectacular views of Newtown’s landscape. They also serve to preserve the natural resources of Newtown for the perpetual benefit of wildlife species and its neighbors.

Each walk will be led by one or more NFA board members who will explain the history of the property and the NFA, discuss some of the plant and wildlife found on the property and communicate other land preservation activities going on in and around Newtown.

Hikes will take approximately one hour and will be for people at all levels.  Family participation is encouraged as the trails are family friendly.

As the sun and ticks are always a risk, hikers are strongly urged to dress properly and wear adequate sun and tick protection.  Upon the conclusion of each hike all should thoroughly inspect themselves for ticks.

Hikers are responsible for their own snacks and drink.

Visit NFA’s website for more information about the Summer Hike Program and the association, NewtownForestAssociation.org.