Farmington

Sun. Jun 5

02:00 pm

-

03:00 pm

1.5 miles

Explore the magnificent Hill-Stead estate! Experience the unexpected delights of Hill-Stead’s outer grounds on a guided estate walk from the hilltop gardens to the pond, fields and barns while enjoying splendid views. After the estate walk, guests may continue on their own to explore any of the six hiking trails on the property.

ABOUT THE TRAILS: Our trails are perfect for a self-guided hike too! (See the map in the “Resources” tab above.). From apple blossoms to grand vistas and fiery fall foliage, Hill-Stead’s three miles of trails are exquisite in any season. With a pond habitat, meadows, lowland, lowbush, and forests, the trails are a nature enthusiast and bird watcher’s paradise. Hill-Stead’s trails represent the rich historical legacy of the estate. Originating, most likely, with Native American walking paths, the trails encompass 18th- and 19th-century farmstead lands. Early 20th-century carriages and sleighs coursed through the grounds, later joined by mechanized farm vehicles and flocks of herded sheep. The trails have been enjoyed by such guests as Eleanor Roosevelt and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis during her days as a Miss Porter’s School student in the late 1940s. Today the trails are walked by neighbors and visitors from around the world. Children and families can enjoy a leisurely stroll and visit the sheep at Clatter Ridge Farm. Hikers looking for strenuous exercise can explore the Blue-Blazed Metacomet Trail, which runs along the eastern ridgeline of the estate.

Meeting Location Details

35 Mountain Rd, Farmington, CT 06032 Please meet at the museum entrance, adjacent to the parking lot.

Click on the red map pin for the event address.