view west via Metacomet Trail(edit)

Overview

This section of the New England Trail between Avon and Farmington is a moderate, point-to-point hike. There are a couple steady ascents and descents with rolling ridge line hiking in between. The section of trail on MDC land has been converted into a gravel road, making for some very easy hiking. This trail can be turned into a loop utilizing some of the other trails in the MDC area.

You can expect to see other people on this section, particularly on the weekends. Mountain bikers also commonly use portions of this trail and connected spur trails. Avoid the crowds by hiking on a weekday if possible.

Getting Started

To do this hike as a point-to-point, stage one car on Route 44 just past the entrance for MDC Reservoir #6. There is parking on the opposite side of the road for 6-8 cars, though this lot tends to fill up quickly on weekends. Additional parking can be found in the Reservoir #6 parking lot across the road; use caution if crossing Route 44 as it is a high-speed, highly trafficked road.

Stage the other car in the commuter parking lot across Route 4 from Prattling Pond Rd, or in one of the parking lots for the medical facilities if the commuter lot is closed. The trail picks up about 40 yards up Prattling Pond Rd. Again, use caution when crossing Route 4 as it is a high-speed, highly trafficked road.

Taking Children

This is a moderate hike that may be too challenging for children under age 7. Additionally, depending on parking, hikers may have to cross Route 44 and/or Route 4, which can have heavy, fast-moving traffic. Closely supervise children and pets in these areas.