Bafflin Sanctuary at Pomfret Farms
GOOD FOR: All Ages
RATING:


Source:Outdoors with Kids Boston (AMC Books)
Address:220 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT
Hours:Dawn to dusk daily
Fee: Free
Contact:

ctaudubon.org/sanctuaries; 203-869-5272
 

Bathrooms: At the sanctuary
Water/Snacks: Water fountain in the sanctuary
Map:

This Connecticut Audubon Society sanctuary offers a variety of trails through different habitats.

This former farm's vast grasslands offer great wildflower picking in summer.
Photo by: Jerry and Marcy Monkman

This 702-acre Connecticut Audubon Society property was once a dairy farm, but today it offers 10 miles of walking trails (with interpretive signs) that cross beaver ponds, grasslands, a hemlock ravine, and streams. It is easy to visit and not see another soul, making for a peaceful walk. From behind the sanctuary, a lovely trail is Ravine Trail, 0.63-mile hike that takes you through a hemlock forest and next to a stream.

The property is designated an Important Bird Area, and more than 200 species have been observed here. Endangered long-eared owls come to spend the winter, while several WatchList species—including the American woodcock, blue-winged warbler, and the black-billed cuckoo—breed on the grounds.

In addition to the Bafflin Sanctuary, the Audubon Society runs the nearby Center at Pomfret, with hands-on environmental education programs, afterschool and weekend programs that include hikes and bird walks, and various workshops and changing natural history exhibits.

Remember: You can hike to link up with other trails or park at other designated parking areas (see map on website) to access trails.

Plan B:

Nearby Mashamoquet Brook State Park (Trip 93) offers overnight camping and lots of trails.

Where to Eat Nearby:

Head north on CT 169 to Pomfret Center for a few dining options.



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