New Hiking Trail Expansion Celebrated In Avon

Town of Avon

AVON, CT — The local community last Saturday celebrated the opening of a new trail connector with a ribbon-cutting and inaugural hike at the trailhead on Northington Drive.

The new trail connector links the previously disconnected trail systems in the adjacent Huckleberry Hill and Found Land Recreation Areas, resulting in more than 6 miles of uninterrupted walking and hiking through Avon’s scenic upland woodlands.

“We are pleased to open this new trail connection that was first conceived as a recommendation in the town’s 2016 Plan of Conservation & Development,” said Dan Polhamus, Avon Town Council chairman.

“The connector adds to our already extensive 22 linear mile trail network and provides additional opportunities for our residents and visitors to experience the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and the beauty of our natural world.

"The town is fortunate to have residents that are determined advocates for its trail network. In particular, we are grateful to Norm Sondheimer and Jeff Grindrod for working with the Department of Public Works and the Department of Recreation & Parks staff to complete this exciting project."

Saturday’s hike was the second in a series of three organized group hikes planned for this spring.

The series is co-sponsored by the Avon Department of Recreation & Parks and the Avon Land Trust.

"When the Avon Land Trust and Avon Recreation and Parks partner on a hike, it's like Penn and Teller," said Rick Dubiel, Avon Land Trust Co-President. “The fresh air, exercise, great comradery, and nature all combine to magically put a smile on your face."

The third and final hike of the season is on June 1 and it will coincide with Connecticut Trails Day 2024.

The hike will begin at 10 a.m. (arrive at 9:45 a.m.) at Fisher Meadows, 800 Old Farms Road, Avon.

Participants should register in advance at www.avonrec.com. Call the Avon Department of Recreation & Parks at 860-409-4332 or email avonrec@avonct.gov with questions.