(Excerpted from the Connecticut Trails Day 2008 pamphlet published by the Connecticut Forest & Park Association...)


MANCHESTER

1. Universal Access Nature Walk. 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. Union Pond Park, sponsored by Manchester Recreation Department. Hike this accessible stone dust trail that winds through the park. The trail is designed with special features for wheelchair users and the visually impaired, including signs in Braille about plant and animal life in the park. Meet at 11:00 am at the Robertson park parking lot on North School Street.
Leader Scott Sprague, scot50@ci.manchester.ct.us, 860-647-3084.

2. WalkCT Family Hike. 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm. Center Springs Park. A CFPA-certified Family Hike Leader will guide families through this 55-acre urban park to learn some of its history. There are interesting rock formations and a gorge on this easy-paced, approximately 1-mile hike. Terrain is moderately rough and wet in spots, so participants should wear sturdy shoes or sneakers. Children must be accompanied by an adult (adults without children are also welcome!). Meet at 1:00 pm at Manchester Park and Recreation Headquarters, 39 Lodge Drive, Manchester. Rain or shine.
Leaders Susan and Cynthia Barlow, sbarlow627@aol.com, 860-643-9776.


MANCHESTER / GLASTONBURY

Hike. 8:30am to 2:00 pm Blue-Blazed Shenipsit Trail. A moderately-paced 10-mile lollipop loop hike on the Shenipsit Trail to the Gay City Connector and return. Some hills and great views. This is a moderately difficult hike over high ridges and rocky ledges. Hiking shoes required, and no pets, please. Bring lunch and beverage. Meet at 8:30 am at the Shenipsit Trail trailhead on Birch Mountain Road. Take I-384 to Exit 4, go east on Highland Street, right on Birch Mountain Road for 0.4 mile to second trailhead parking area on right. Heavy rain cancels.
Please pre-register with Leader CFPA Trail Manager Bob Morrison, morrisonbob@att.net, 860-645-1342.


VERNON
Nature Walk. Suday June 8, 9:00 am Hockanum River Linear Park Trail, sponsored by Vernon Parks & Recreation Department. Join CFPA Trail Managers on a scenic three-mile tour of the Hockanum River Linear Park Trail. Enjoy the scenery, learn about flora and fauna, trail construction, and history of the area. Children welcome; no dogs. Meet at 9:00 and Naek Road cul-de-sac. From junction of Route 30 and Route 83 in Vernon, take Route 83 north for one mile, turn west on Naek Road. Rain or shine.
Co-Leaders George Arthur, trailsarthur2@comcast.net, 860-871-0137, and Joe King.


VERNON / BOLTON
Strenuous Hike. Sunday, June 8, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The Manchester Land Conservation Trust will lead a challenging hike starting at Risley Park, the land trust's largest parcel of protected land. Hikers should be in good athletic shape for this strenuous hike to Bolton Notch over rough and steep terrain, with spectacular views along the way. Round trip distance is approximately 7.5 miles; the hike will take about four hours. Bring water and a snack; wear sturdy shoes or boots. Meet at the Risley Pond parking lot on north side of Lake Street, Vernon, across from Amy Drive. Additional parking available along Amy Drive. Rain or shine.
Co-Leaders Susan Barlow and Cynthia Barlow, sbarlow627@aol.com, 860-643-9776.