Natchaug State Forest, State forest in Ashford, Connecticut, US
Natchaug State Forest is a large wooded area in Connecticut spanning over 13,000 acres with an extensive network of trails throughout. The Natchaug River forms the western boundary of the property and creates a natural corridor through the landscape.
The forest was established in 1917 and has been managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection since its creation. This long-term stewardship has preserved the land's natural character throughout the decades.
A small state park within the forest marks the birthplace of Civil War general Nathaniel Lyon, linking visitors to an important chapter of American military history. This memorial allows you to connect with the region's role in the nation's past.
The forest offers year-round activities including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and fishing. The best time to visit depends on your interests, with spring and fall ideal for hiking and winter suitable for skiing.
The forest holds numerous stone structures scattered throughout the property, remnants from earlier times. At a special location, the Bigelow River and Still River converge to form the Natchaug River, creating a distinctive geographic feature.
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