Whitaker Woods and McCann Family Farm Loop

While specific parking locations are not detailed, access points for both Whitaker Woods and McCann Family Farm are available. It's recommended to check local land trust websites or trail maps for designated parking areas at the trailheads in Somers, Connecticut.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails. However, it's important to note that horses are not permitted on the McCann Family Farm trails. Always ensure your dog is leashed and follow all local regulations for pet waste.

The trail offers diverse scenery throughout the year. Spring brings out vernal pools and new growth, while fall showcases vibrant New England foliage. Summer is pleasant, but be mindful of insects. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions may vary, especially on rougher sections like the Underhill Trail.

No, there are no fees or permits required to access the Whitaker Woods and McCann Family Farm Loop. These properties are actively maintained as natural preserves by the Northern Connecticut Land Trust, and public access for recreation is encouraged.

The terrain is quite varied, featuring old woods roads, historic stonewalls, and picturesque brooks. You'll pass through mature white pine stands and open fields. Some sections, particularly the Underhill Trail, are noted as rocky and mildly challenging, passing along ledges. The Whitaker Woods property also includes a significant 600-foot hill.

The trail system offers a range of difficulties. The McCann Family Farm trails are generally considered easy. While the main Old Forest Loop in Whitaker Woods involves steady climbs, it's generally manageable for beginners. For a more challenging experience, combining sections of both properties can result in a moderate hike.

Hikers will enjoy classic New England scenery, including beautiful old stone walls, clear brooks, and mature white pine forests. The McCann Family Farm features hay fields and rocky streams. Whitaker Woods is being allowed to mature into an old-growth forest. You might also encounter wetlands, vernal pools, and fallow fields. Lookouts along the Overhill Trail offer views of the Underhill Trail below.

The area is rich in ecological diversity. Deer sightings are common, and the properties are home to over 300 identified plant species and more than 120 bird species. Keep an eye out for various forest and wetland creatures.

Yes, this trail system is notable for its connectivity. It offers a seamless connection between Whitaker Woods and McCann Family Farm, and further links to broader networks including the Forest View Trails, Shenipsit State Forest, and Soapstone Mountain Trails, allowing for extended hiking options.

Yes, while many sections are easy to moderate, the Underhill Trail is described as rocky and mildly challenging, as it does not follow pre-existing roads and passes along ledges. Hikers seeking a less strenuous experience might consider other loops within the system.

The McCann Family Farm gained some renown as the subject of the book "Loop Year: A Memoir of 365 Days on the Trail," written by John Shierer, who hiked a specific loop on the farm daily for a year. This highlights the enduring appeal and accessibility of its trails.