WalkCT Family Rambles
Take a break from the daily grind and join us for a refreshing adventure. WalkCT Family Rambles bring families, fun, and the outdoors together. Led by trained WalkCT Family Guides, these engaging outings are offered at trails around the state on the last weekend of every month, January through December. Because these adventures are geared specifically for families, kids and their caregivers will delight in this outdoor quest for fun together.
WalkCT Family Rambles are free as a public service to the children and families of Connecticut. Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required. Locations are subject to change; call the Connecticut Forest & Park Association at (860) 346-2372 or return to this page for updates and new postings. Babies in backpacks welcome. See you on the path to health and happiness!
To prepare for a safe and enjoyable time:
1. Bring water, snack, and your excitement;
2. Leave pets at home;
3. Wear sturdy shoes; and
4. Kids, please remember to bring your parents or caregivers.
Cheney Railroad Trail; Manchester
Saturday, February 27, 2010 - 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Families with school-aged children
Come along for an easy, but bumpy, walk along the former Cheney railroad, built in 1869, which connected the Cheney silk mills to the main rail line in the North End. At 2.5 miles, it was the longest private railroad in the United States. Free vintage railroad patch for children. We will hike along the one-mile portion owned by the Manchester Land Conservation Trust, which will take about 1-1/2 hours round trip, with an optional additional walk to scenic Center Springs Park, a 55-acre urban park in the center of town. Phone volunteer Family Guide (860-643-9776) if questions. There are no restrooms, so children should use the facilities before leaving home. WEATHER: Heavy rain or snow cancels.
Meet at the North End of Main Street in Manchester, behind Farr’s Sporting Goods, 2 Main Street. From Hartford, take I-84 east toward Boston. Take exit 62, Buckland Street. Take a right at the end of the exit ramp onto Buckland Street. At the light, turn left onto Tolland Turnpike, and stay straight as it becomes North Main Street. In about one mile, turn right onto Main Street, Route 83. Please park at the nearby shopping plaza or Eighth Utilities office building, not in Farr’s parking lot.
Hop River State Park Trail, Manchester
Saturday, March 27, 2010 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Families with school-aged children
Come explore the Hop River Trail – a place where walkers, bikers, and birdwatchers can enjoy nature very close to home, along the old railroad. Wear sturdy shoes or sneakers and expect wet spots, with bumpy terrain. We will walk about 3 miles along the former railroad. WEATHER: Extreme weather cancels
From Hartford, take I-84 eastbound to exit 63. Left off exit ramp onto Route 83/Route 30 toward Rockville. Go about one tenth mile, past the Big Y store and take first right onto Parker Street. Stay on Parker Street a little less than a mile, and turn left onto Colonial Road. The parking lot for the Hop River Trail is close to the intersection on the left.
