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Knox Preserve

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Knox Preserve offers trails that run along the Quiambaug Cove, allow access to the shore and provide opportunities to view abundant wildlife and seasonal Purple Martin nesting.
Trail Activity
Hiking
Length
1.1 miles, Network
Difficulty
Easy
Town
Stonington
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt, Grass
Pets
Permitted on leash
Fees
No

Description

Knox Preserve is a network of unmarked trails through a mixture of grass/meadow and packed earth/dirt in woodlands. The trail also runs along Quiambaug Cove with several spots to access the shore and 3 benches to stop and enjoy the view. The trails range from 4 feet to wide open in width, and offer the opportunity to explore without relying on trail markers or maps. Of note, Knox Preserve is a birding hot spot (on eBird) for fall migration. Avalonia maintains an active colony of State-listed Purple Martins as well as many birdhouses in the fields.

The wet meadows and brackish pond attract wildlife such as deer, coyotes, foxes, rabbits, woodchucks, turkeys, birds of prey, and waterfowl. Elevation changes are minimal (less than 50 feet), with the exception of a rocky knoll that offers great scenery and good views of an osprey nest by the railroad tracks. The preserve is adjacent to an old cemetery and offers kayakers the ability to paddle up to the preserve and land at several spots along the shore.

Other Information

Rules

  • There is no public access across the Amtrak railroad tracks.
  • It is pet friendly (dogs on leash).
  • Fields are closed to all activity during bird nesting season, April through August.
  • This trail offers kayak access.

This property is part of Avalonia's Hike and Seek Program scavenger hunt program!

Trail Manager

Avalonia Land Conservancy
P.O. Box 49
Old Mystic, CT 06372
(860) 884-3500
http://www.avalonia.org

Trail Tips

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Find out about and follow any local regulations and respect landowners’ property.

Trailhead Information

From I-95

From I-95 take exit 90. Head south on Route 27 and take a left onto Route 1 (Stonington Road). Take a right onto Wilcox Road. Preserve parking will be on the left and the trailhead is on the right. 

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