Shelton's Treasured Trio: Pine Lake

Shelton is abundant with reservoirs: some like Trap Falls which still produce, and others (let's call them "retired"), have become treasures visually and physically for the nature lovers at heart.

It is no coincidence that the Shelton Rec Path, created by the Shelton Trails Committee, runs along the parameters of our three historical reservoirs, known today as The Shelton Lakes -- or more specifically Pine Lake, Silent Waters and Hope Lake.

This trio of reservoirs was built in the late 1800's as a waterway to  provide the heavy industries located downtown with sufficient water pressure to fight fires. A series of fieldstone dams was built to create these reservoirs at an elevation higher than the Housatonic. History tells that these dams were built by hand, as modern machinery was obviously not available. All three reservoirs and approximately 450 acres of woodlands were bought by the city of Shelton in 1998.

Pine Lake

Our series of exploring the reservoirs begins at Pine Lake, located on Route 108 just near the . Pine Lake is part of a three-mile round-trip hike. The walkway, made of crushed stone, is about ten feet wide and suitable for baby carriages, bikes, runners, pet walkers and is child friendly and handicap accessible.

Begin your exploration of Pine Lake by pausing over the pedestrian bridge and counting the large snapping turtles that surface. You'll find friends fishing the many species of aquatic life that fill this lake. Notice the "gatehouse" to your left. The concrete foundation that it sits on is hollow and goes to the bottom of the lake where the "gate switch" is located. This structure, called "the wall of water and ice," was spared in 1903 during a havoc when one of the upstream dams broke and threatened the downtown area.

You'll occasionally pass middle and high school runners training on the trails as well. This is a fairly easy walk, but there are "blaze trails" off the Rec Path for those seeking a bit more challenge. Cross over Meadow Street and back onto the trail and find remnants of an old stone dam near Curtis Brooke. The Rec Path will continue past the ball field between SIS and SHS before you cross over Constitution Blvd. North towards our second treasured reservoir: Silent Waters.

Join us next week as we explore Silent Waters and the woodlands surrounding it.

This article is the first in a three-part series in which Dee shares her experiences after visiting the city's reservoirs.