The Woodlot Sanctuary offers an established trail system with two loops and connectors to a small off-street parking lot. The loops are marked with either an orange trail head (northern half of trails) or a yellow trail head (southern half of trails). Total mileage of trails, if all trails are traversed, is approximately 1.3 miles with 70 ft elevation gain. These trails provide easy hiking opportunities. The trails are wide and gentle with the width of trails ranging from 2-3 feet wide to as wide as 20 feet.
The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife including several species which have special status in Connecticut. Box turtles and spotted turtles have been found on the property. Red-shouldered hawks and broad-winged hawks are regular nesters as well. Coyotes have been observed by hikers so be aware of the wildlife around you.
The permanent protection of the land now named “The Woodlot Sanctuary” was made possible by the generous donations of two local families: The Bates and Frohn families. Three lots totaling approximately 29 acres include a variety of habitats. The landscape shows a history of varied forestry practices over decades. It is now dominated by oak and beech with hickory, sassafras, and scattered evergreens as well, and offers an excellent understory of huckleberry and lowbush blueberry. The eastern border is comprised of wetlands that emerge into a brook that flows ultimately into Stonington Harbor; wetlands in the western portion drain directly into the Deans Mill Reservoir.
This property is part of Avalonia's Hike and Seek Program scavenger hunt program!
Take Exit 91 and turn right onto CT-234 West in Stonington. Turn left onto Flanders Road. Turn right onto Pellegrino Road. The parking lot and trail head will be on the right.
Take Exit 91 and turn left onto Taugwonk Road. Continue onto CT-234 West in Stonington. Turn left onto Flanders Road. Turn right onto Pellegrino Road. The parking lot and trail head will be on the left.
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