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Connecticut
5

Connecticut State Parks

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Connecticut
River Valley Region
Tunxis State Forest
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TUNXIS STATE FOREST
TUNXIS STATE FOREST
Tunxis State Forest is approximately 9,152 acres divided into sections on both sides of the Barkhamsted Reservoir. It contains large areas of unbroken forest in the towns of Hartland, Barkhamsted, and Granby. Even at the time of the original purchases for Tunxis in 1923, much of the area was already heavily forested. This is unlike many other parts of the state that, back then, were only gradually growing into forest from farm abandonment. Today, Tunxis is part of a large area of wildland that includes adjacent property of the MDC (Metropolitan District Commission, which is a major drinking water supplier), other Connecticut state forests, and Granville State Forest in Massachusetts.

Many types of wildlife can be seen at Tunxis. Near the end of the Twentieth Century, the area was one of the earliest in the state to see moose and black bear. It is a ?working forest?, actively managed for improved forest health and diversity, and to produce forest products. It is also a popular forest recreational ?escape? for enthusiasts who like to hike, cross-country ski, snowshoe and hunt
History of the Area
Tunxis State Forest, located in the state of Connecticut, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Here is an overview of its historical background:

- The initial acquisition of the Tunxis State Forest lands took place in 1927. The Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA) played a crucial role in this process by purchasing 988 acres of land, including the Tunxis Peak and Mount Fowler area.

- Over the years, additional tracts of land were acquired, expanding the forest's size. The civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) contributed to this expansion during the Great Depression of the 1930s by undertaking various conservation projects in the forest.

- In the 1940s, the State of Connecticut obtained more land in the Tunxis State Forest with the assistance of the CFPA, further increasing the total area to its current size of approximately 9,152 acres.

- During the 20th century, the forest was primarily used for timber harvesting and recreational activities such as hunting and fishing.

- In recent years, Tunxis State Forest has also become important for wildlife preservation and habitat conservation. The forest supports a diverse range of plant and animal species, providing a natural haven for both rare and common wildlife.

- Moreover, Tunxis State Forest offers visitors various recreational opportunities. The forest has several hiking trails, including the Tunxis Mainline Blue Blazed Trail, which stretches for approximately 79 miles across Connecticut, passing through the forest. It also features camping areas, picnic spots, and opportunities for fishing in designated areas.

Tunxis State Forest stands as a valuable natural resource for Connecticut, balancing conservation and recreation in a historic landscape that has been preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Passes
Connecticut has made state parks, forests, trails, historic sites and beaches more accessible to our residents so they can enjoy the many attractions and beauty they offer. Under the Passport to the Parks program, parking fees are now eliminated at Connecticut State Parks for those with Connecticut registered vehicles. You can view the CONNECTICUT PASSPORT TO THE PARKS web page to learn more.
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Trails
1. Indian Council Caves Trail: A 6-mile moderate trail that leads to a series of caves and rock formations, offering beautiful views of the forest.

2. Tunxis Mainline Trail: This is an extensive 40 miles long trail running north-south through the entire length of the state forest with varying difficulty levels.

3. Yellow Dot Loop Trail: An easy-to-moderate looped hiking path spanning about three miles; it's perfect for beginners or those looking for shorter hikes in nature.

4. Perry's Lookout via Blue-Blazed Metacomet-Monadnock (M&M)Trail: It offers stunning panoramic views from atop cliffs after a moderately challenging hike up steep inclines over approximately four miles round trip.

5. Tunxis White Dot & Red Trails: These are two separate trails but often hiked together as they intersect at several points providing varied terrain including rocky outcrops, dense woodland and small streams across roughly five mile stretch each.

6. Turkey Vultures Ledge Hike: A short yet rewarding one:mile trek leading to Turkey Vultures ledge which provides breathtaking vistas overlooking Barkhamsted Reservoir.

7. Mile Of Ledges And Tory Den Via The Tunxis Purple Blaze: This adventurous six mile route takes you along narrow ledges requiring some scrambling skills before reaching historic Tory den site used during Revolutionary war times.

8. Barkhamsted Hollow Tree Loop: A relatively flat family:friendly walk around scenic reservoir area covering just under two miles.

9. Enders State Forest Falls Walk: A less than half-a-mile stroll suitable even for toddlers taking visitors right upto picturesque waterfalls within Enders section of larger Tunxis Forest.

10. Pine Mountain Reserve Path: An offshoot from mainline tunixis this rugged uphill climb rewards hikers with sweeping valley view stretching all way till Massachusetts border.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
February 21 most remote and peaceful place in ct by big al
park review stars; one to five beautiful woods, peace and quiet, great place to hike,never know what you might see, bear, deer,moose(yes moose),if theres any mountain lions in Connecticut this is the place
May 15 Wonderful park by N. Hines
park review stars; one to five Nice hiking trails and not crowded. Heavily forested area with absolutely beautiful scenery and little traffic getting to park. Falls Brook trail is a nice, moderate, 2 mile hike along a steam and a nice waterfall. Our favorite!
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Area Campgrounds
White Pines Campground
232 Old North Road
Barkhamsted, CT
860-379-0124

Directions
1. Start by heading onto CT:4 W from Farmington Ave/CT-10 S.
2. Continue on CT:4 W for approximately 7 miles until you reach the town of Burlington.
3. In Burlington, turn left onto Punch Brook Rd and continue straight for about 0.6 miles.
4. Take a slight right onto Hartland Rd and drive for another mile or so.
5. Turn left onto Newgate Road (also known as Route 219) and stay on this road for around 8 miles until you reach Barkhamsted Reservoir Dam No #9 parking area entrance.

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Connecticut
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Connecticut State Parks

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