Pequonnock River Valley Hike

While walking along the paved and unpaved trails of the Pequonnock River Valley with your friends and family, you might not realize that you are passing by the ruins of the Tait Paper Mill, Trumbull’s first bill board, or hiking through areas that were once entirely submerged in water.

Every day Trumbull residents enjoy walking on Trumbull’s Freedom Trail. Hikers and mountain bikers enjoy the rougher side of the Valley’s east trails. Over the last century industries closed, the Housatonic Railroad stopped running, and the forest began to grow back at an alarming rate, eventually becoming the beautiful natural park that we enjoy today. The Valley did not only include farmland and industries, but was used in the 19th and early 20th centuries the way that residents enjoy the Valley today. The Trumbull Historical Society has a collection of photos showing Trumbull residents picnicking, fishing, swimming and hiking in the valley during the late 1800’s. It was the perfect place for families and friends to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. It is no wonder that the railroad chose this area to build Parlor Rock Amusement Park, which brought as many as 3,000 visitors a day from 1878 through 1907.

I spent a great deal of time exploring the Valley in both high school and college. But I never gave much thought to the stone buildings and old wells that I passed while walking. After becoming involved with the Historical Society a little over a year ago, I am finally learning about the rich and fascinating history of the trails I thought I knew. I am excited to share what I have learned with Trumbull residents this coming weekend.

Members from both the Historical Society and Trumbull Nature and Arts Center will lead residents on a 2.5 mile hike along the Valley’s east trail on Saturday, October 27th at 11AM. Hikers will gather at the Park St. Commuter Lot around 10:45, and divide into three groups. A bus will be waiting at Indian Ledge Park to transport hikers back to their cars. It should be a great event, and let’s hope for good weather! Please bring along water and be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and long pants. The trail can be slightly rough. We will be selling some excellent guide books for $2 at the hike. The rain date is set for October 28th.

See you there!