4 Mile Hike Tolland Land Conservation Properties

Overview
4 mile hike with about 550 feet of ups and downs at a mild pace. Note that the meetup spot is 10 minutes away from hike - we will consolidate into 2-3 cars to go the the limited parking at trailhead.

Hike Description
We'll hike all around two of Tolland’s most beautiful Open Space Conservation Areas: Campbell's and Stoppleworth. Features include hardwood and softwood forests, rock tripe-covered traprock, a viewpoint to Hartford in the west, brooks and wetlands, and hopefully an abundance of beautiful lady slipper flowers! The plan is a 4-mile double loop with more than 500 feet elevation on typical New England trails of roots and rocks, with a couple of climbs up to viewpoints. Beginning hikers in reasonable shape and good footwear are welcome! My pace is "mild": about 2 miles/hour, going slower up hills, and with stops to look at the features. We'll take short snack breaks at the viewpoint (mile 2) and at the ridge top (mile 3) where we hope to enjoy the lady slippers. We hike as a group and leave nobody behind.

What to Bring
You must have footwear appropriate for roots and rocks and some soggy trails. Poles are helpful if you like using them. Bring water and a high calorie snack, sun protection, layers, and a backpack to carry it all. Bug spray, a basic first aid kit, backup battery for your cellphone, and a paper map of the area are wise to have.

Map of the Campbell's Peaceful Valley Preserve is HERE
Map of Stoppleworth Preserve is HERE

AS ALWAYS FOR LORI-LED HIKES
• Adult human hikers only. Leave Fido and kids at home.
• START time is the "step off time". Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to find the place and get your gear all together, as we start on time!
• END time is an approximation. We may end sooner - or later - depending on the pace of the group and how much we stop to play.
• I keep my groups small - be diligent and thoughtful with your RSVP.
• Oohing and Ahhing over flora and fauna and other cool stuff encouraged.
• We're here to enjoy nature with all of our presence and all of our senses, so please turn your cellphone off and join the Now.
• Practice the Leave no Trace Principles

=== Legal Stuff ===
By clicking on "Yes" for this event you agree, warrant, and covenant as follows:
In consideration for accepting this entry, I, the registrant, intending to be legally bound, hereby, for myself, my heirs, my executors and administrators, do waive and release any and all rights for damages I may have against any parties or persons connected with the Hartford Area Hiking meetup group for and related to the above listed event. I attest and verify that I am physically fit to participate in any portion of this above listed event. I grant Hartford Area Hiking permission to use any photographs, film or videotapes of this event for any purpose.