First Thursday: Day Hike Asylum Pond/Bear Hill in Middletown CT

I schedule hikes the first Thursday morning of each month. This one is a moderate 6.7 mile loop through the woods and rocks in the Maromas Wildlife Mangement Area on the blue blazed Mattabesett Trail from Asylum Reservoir Number 2 past Bear Hill. Trail is a combination of wooded, rocky in places trail and unpaved woods road. While there are a few spots that are steep, the overall elevation gain is moderate.

The parking is on the shoulders of Brooks Rd, mostly past the pond. We'll meet by the reservoir. I have a blue Kia Niro and will park in the lot with my hatch open. We'll try to start at 9:00am promptly so plan on being there ten minutes beforehand.

No restrooms are available here, there are a couple of Dunkin Donuts and there are several gas stations in Middletown off Rt. 9.

Plan on 3-4 hours depending on pace of group. This can be a beginner's hike; the reservoir loop is about 2 miles and brings us back to the parking area. I don't run in the woods, but tend to average 30-40 minutes/mile. I do take breaks and we will stop for photos and snacks.

You will need to bring at least a liter of water, snacks, insect repellent and a pack to carry them. If it's sunny, bring sunscreen and additional water although it's pretty well forested. If it's rainy bring rain gear or ponchos, towels and dry clothes; we'll go rain or shine. Layers are key to hiking this time of year. Lightning or hurricane cancels. Hiking boots are a must for this hike. Jeans will chafe and ruin your day. Dogs and kids (10 and up) are welcome, but must be on a leash at all times :).