Salmon River State Forest facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Salmon River State Forest |
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 Salmon River State Forest
Location in Connecticut
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| Location | Connecticut, United States |
| Area | 6,905 acres (27.94 km2) |
| Elevation | 430 ft (130 m) |
| Established | 1934 |
| Governing body | Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection |
| Website | Salmon River State Forest |
Salmon River State Forest is a large state forest located in Connecticut, United States. It spreads across several towns like Hebron, Marlborough, and East Hampton. This forest is a special place for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
The forest covers about 6,905 acres, which is a huge area! Part of this land, about 1,300 acres, is actually leased from the United States government. The forest was first set up in 1934. It is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.
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Exploring the Forest
Salmon River State Forest offers many ways to explore its beautiful natural areas. You can find different types of trails here. These trails are perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Hiking and Biking Trails
One popular trail is the Salmon River Trail. It is about 6.7 miles long and is marked with blue blazes (paint marks on trees). These blue marks help you stay on the right path.
Another interesting trail is part of the Air Line State Park Trail. This trail used to be a railroad line. Now, it's a "rail trail" where people can walk or bike.
Famous Landmarks
The Air Line State Park Trail also features the Lyman Viaduct. This is a very tall bridge, about 137 feet high! It's an impressive sight to see.
The forest is also home to Comstock's Bridge. This is a special covered bridge that crosses the Salmon River. It's the only covered bridge left in eastern Connecticut, making it a unique landmark. You can find it near Route 16 in East Hampton.
Fun Activities to Do
Besides hiking and biking, Salmon River State Forest offers many other fun activities. It's a great place to spend time with family and friends outdoors.
Fishing Opportunities
If you enjoy fishing, the Salmon River has good spots. There are special areas for fly fishing that are easy for everyone to access. There are also fishing spots set aside for disabled veterans.
Other Outdoor Sports
The forest has facilities for different field sports. You can also go hunting in designated areas. Mountain biking is another popular activity on the trails. If you want to relax, there are picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal outdoors.
