Haystack Mountain (Connecticut) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Haystack Mountain State Park |
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Observation tower atop Haystack Mountain
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 Haystack Mountain State Park
Location in Connecticut
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| Location | Norfolk, Connecticut, United States |
| Area | 292 acres (118 ha) |
| Elevation | 1,663 ft (507 m) |
| Designation | Connecticut state park |
| Established | 1917 |
| Administrator | Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection |
| Website | Haystack Mountain State Park |
Haystack Mountain State Park is a super cool place to visit in Norfolk, Connecticut. It's a public park where you can explore nature and enjoy amazing views. The main attraction is Haystack Mountain itself, which stands about 1,716-foot-high (523 m). At the very top, there's a special observation tower waiting for you!
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Discover Haystack Mountain State Park
Haystack Mountain State Park is a fantastic spot for outdoor adventures. It's located in the beautiful town of Norfolk, Connecticut, in the United States. The park covers about 292 acres, giving you plenty of space to explore. It became a state park way back in 1917, so it has a long history of welcoming visitors.
The Amazing Observation Tower
One of the coolest things about Haystack Mountain is its observation tower. This tower is about 34-foot-tall (10 m) and was built in 1929. It's so important that it's even listed on the National Register of Historic Places!
When you climb to the top of the tower, you'll get incredible views. You can see over the town of Norfolk and even the nearby town of Canaan, Connecticut. On a clear day, the scenery is just breathtaking. It's a perfect spot for taking photos or just enjoying the peaceful landscape.
Exploring Nature: Plants and Animals
Haystack Mountain State Park is home to lots of different plants and animals. It's a great place to see wildlife in their natural habitat.
Wildlife You Might See
Keep your eyes peeled for these common animals:
- Raccoons
- Bears
- Deer
- Coyotes
- Opossums
- Skunks
- Foxes
Remember to observe animals from a distance and never feed them.
Plant Life
The park also has beautiful plant life. You'll find many different types of trees and plants, including:
- Mountain laurel: This is the state flower of Connecticut!
- Pine trees
- Maple trees
Walking through the park, you'll be surrounded by the beauty of these plants.
What Can You Do at the Park?
Haystack Mountain State Park is perfect for a day trip. Here are some things you can enjoy:
- Hiking: There are trails that lead up to the observation tower. It's a fun hike with a great reward at the top.
- Sightseeing: The views from the tower are a must-see.
- Nature Watching: Look for the animals and plants mentioned above.
- Picnics: Bring some snacks and enjoy them surrounded by nature.
The park is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. They work hard to keep the park beautiful and safe for everyone.
