Neighbor News
Friends of Valley Falls Offer Nature, History Walks
Join Us for Free Walks at Valley Falls Park!
The Friends of Valley Falls are offering a series of free nature and history walks in Valley Falls Park, beginning in April. Walks start from the pavilion in Valley Falls Park, 300 Valley Falls Road. Any event cancellations due to weather will be posted before start time on the Friends Facebook page: The Friends of Valley Falls, Inc., Vernon CT.
April 26, 10 am – April Wildflower Walk led by Carol Hatch
Carol will help us find the many early spring wildflowers that can be found peeking out of the ground after a long winter.
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May 3, 7 am - The Birds in Valley Falls Park led by Denise Animani.
Denise will share her wealth of knowledge about our feathered friends. In the past, we have typically identified over 30 bird species found in the park during spring migration. Bring binoculars if you have them; bird apps such as Merlin, and bird lists are welcome.
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May 17, 10 am – May Wildflower Walk led by Carol Hatch
Carol will lead us through the woods to find spring wildflowers typically overlooked in the park; often we discover Lady Slippers!
May 30, 10 am – Rocks, Railroads and Industry Walk led by Don Sierakowski
On this partnership walk with the Friends of Valley Falls and Vernon Historical Society, Don explores an old flax and cotton mill site, highlighting how these industries, the lives of several rich or notorious people, and the railroad all helped bring industrial development to the Valley Falls area.
June 6, 10 am – The Trees of Valley Falls Park led by Rose Hiskes
As the trees begin to leaf out, join Rose as we identify the many species found in the park, hear about notable trees, and learn about the ways trees help our local habitat.
Oct. 17, 1 pm – Fall Hike in the Park; Tour of the Heritage Center
In partnership with the Northern CT Land Trust, join Karl Hasel for a 90-minute hike to Echo Ridge and enjoy scenic views during this autumn season. We will then walk the short distance from the park to the Red Barn at Valley Falls Farm for cider and refreshments, followed by a guided tour of the Heritage Center’s historic buildings and artifacts. Tour includes the stable, ice house, root cellar, manure shed and piggery. Restroom facilities available in the barn.
Founded in 1972, the Friends of Valley Falls, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving history and nature. www.friendsofvalleyfalls.org
