‘Take a Hike’ – the Old Lyme Open Space Commission’s signature slogan – will ring out across America this weekend.
June 1 and 2 are both National and Connecticut Trails Day, with over 250 hikes and outdoor activities scheduled across the state, including in Old Lyme.
The state sponsor, the Connecticut Forest & Park Association (CFPA), describes the weekend as “New Year’s Eve in June” when families and people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy our “natural walking places.”
In Old Lyme, the Florence Griswold Museum is sponsoring a two-hour interpretive walk from 1 to 3 p.m. through the town’s Champlain North Open Space, which features the historic “Barbizon Oak.” At over 16 ft. in circumference, the 300-year-old white oak is one of Connecticut’s largest and was named in honor of the Old Lyme art colony.
The walk will travel through mixed oak woods and moss-covered ledge to investigate a late season vernal pool. Participants will explore the native flora and fauna of the site and a unique colony of native mound ants. Wear appropriate shoes for walking on a dirt trail, stepping across ledge, and along the edge of wet areas. No dogs.
Local naturalist Judy Preston will lead the walk. Walk is free, but reservations suggested with Preston at (860) 395-0465 (rain or shine); meet at Picnic Table near Parking Lot at Museum.
For more information, visit the museum’s web site.
If you prefer to strike out on your own or in an informal group, Old Lyme is blessed with other beautiful trails, ranging from easy to more challenging.
Click for locations and trail maps for Old Lyme Open Space and Old Lyme Land Trust preserves.
One of the day’s goals is to introduce folks to the state and town’s trails and spur their regular use as a means of healthy exercise and a way to appreciate nature’s wonders and seasons. So enjoy the weekend, “take a hike” and if you bring your dog, please keep it under control as a courtesy to other hikers.
And if you wish to keep hiking, join both organizations for a Hiker’s Happy Hour on June 6 at the Old Lyme Inn.