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Mill Hollow Open Space

The Mill Hollow Open Space Area is approximately nine acres on the east side of the Mill River, just downstream of the Sturges Road Bridge. It is Fairfield's southern-most tract of riverside open space and is located within the tidally influenced zone of the river. 
Trail Activity
Hiking Walking
Length
0.4 miles, Loop
Difficulty
Easy
Town
Fairfield
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt, Gravel/Crushed Stone, Grass, Boardwalk
Pets
Permitted
Fees
No

Description

Mill Hollow trails offer visitors a chance to explore the open space while enjoying its rich history and natural beauty. A loop trail circles the interior pond, accessible from entrances at both the north and south ends. Along the east and west sides of the pond, where the terrain is wet, approximately 1,000 feet of boardwalk provide a stable path.

Extending from the Sturges Road Bridge in the north to the Colonial Ford in the south, the trail spans about 2,400 feet. Along the way, several short paths branch off to the Mill River's edge, popular with fishermen and birdwatchers alike.

History

This area holds historical significance dating back to Colonial times, as the Mill River Ford just south of the open space was a critical crossing on the Post Road between Boston and New York City. Historical records suggest that George Washington himself crossed the river here. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area was home to a dog biscuit factory before the Town acquired the land in 1960. The deed ensures the land remains dedicated to public use, preserving its unique history and natural environment for generations to come.

Trail Manager

Town of Fairfield
Town of Fairfield
725 Old Post Road
Fairfield, CT 06824
(203) 256-3071
View website

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Keep Connecticut green and clean! Pick up trash, even if it's not yours. Leave soon-to-be trash like excess packaging, stickers, and twist ties at home.
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Trailhead Information

From I-95S to Parking Area

From I-95S, take Exit 21 and continue straight onto Sturges Road. Turn left onto Mill Hill Terrace and the parking area is on the left. Once parked, walk up Mill Hill Terrace, take a right on Sturges Road and cross the bridge. The Trailhead is on the right. 

From I-95N To Parking

From I-95N, take Exit 21 and turn left onto Mill Plain Road. After the I-95 underpass, turn left onto Sturges Road. Turn left onto Mill Hill Terrace and the parking area is on the left. Once parked, walk up Mill Hill Terrace, take a right on Sturges Road and cross the bridge. The Trailhead is on the right. 

Additional Roadside Parking

Both Trailheads also have limited roadside parking. The northern trailhead is along Sturges Road and the southern is along Unquowa Road at Somerset Avenue. 

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
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