Pachaug State Forest facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pachaug State Forest |
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The Rhododendron Sanctuary Trail
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 Pachaug State Forest
Location in Connecticut
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| Location | New London, Connecticut, United States |
| Area | 28,804 acres (116.57 km2) |
| Elevation | 459 ft (140 m) |
| Established | 1928 |
| Governing body | Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection |
| Website | Pachaug State Forest |
| Designated: | 1973 |
Pachaug State Forest is the biggest forest in Connecticut. It covers more than 27,000 acres, which is a huge area! This forest is located right next to the Rhode Island border. You can find parts of it in several towns, including Voluntown and Griswold.
The forest was started in 1928. However, most of its land was bought later during the Great Depression. It gets its name from the Pachaug River, which flows through the middle of the forest. Pachaug State Forest is part of a larger natural area called the Northeastern coastal forests.
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Cool Features of the Forest
The Great Meadow Swamp
A special part of the forest is called the Pachaug-Great Meadow Swamp. In 1973, it was named a National Natural Landmark. This means it's a very important natural place! It's famous for its unique "Atlantic white cedar" swamp. These types of forests are quite special and need to be protected.
Hiking Trails for Adventure
Pachaug State Forest has four popular hiking trails. The Connecticut Forest and Park Association helps take care of them. These trails are perfect for exploring the forest on foot!
- The Pachaug Trail is about 30 miles (48 km) long. It goes east to west in a big horseshoe shape. It starts at Pachaug Pond and ends at Green Fall Pond.
- The Nehantic Trail is almost 15 miles (24 km) long. It begins near Green Fall Pond and goes northwest towards the Pachaug River.
- The Quinebaug Trail runs north and south for about 7 miles (11 km). It connects Breakneck Hill Road to Spaulding Road.
- The Narragansett Trail starts in North Stonington and goes northeast. It leaves Connecticut and enters Yawgoog Scout Reservation in Rhode Island. It finally ends at Ashville Pond in Hopkinton, Rhode Island.
There's also a special trail called the Rhododendron Sanctuary Trail. It's great for everyone, even those using wheelchairs, because it has a wooden boardwalk. This trail is super beautiful when the rhododendron flowers bloom in June and July!
Besides these main trails, there are many dirt and gravel roads. These roads are popular for mountain biking. They connect to many smaller, unmarked paths, making it a fun place to ride. Some trails are marked for "multi-use," meaning different activities are allowed there.
Motorcycling Fun
Pachaug State Forest has a 58-mile (93 km) Enduro trail for off-road motorcycles. This trail is marked with white labels and red arrows on trees. These signs help riders know which way to go.
Part of the Enduro trail uses public roads. This means that if you ride a motorcycle on this trail, you need a valid motorcycle registration. You also need a motorcycle driver's license. This helps keep everyone safe on the trails and roads.
