Big Gulph Hike

Join the North Branford Land Trust and hike leader Geoff Smith on a guided tour through beautiful, wooded Big Gulph on Saturday, March 28, at 9:30 a.m. This special outing offers a rare opportunity to explore protected Regional Water Authority (RWA) property without the usual required permit.

Located in North Branford, Big Gulph features more than six miles of trails, ranging from flat to very steep with a variety of wildlife habitats, including streams, meadows and forests.  It is also a good place to look for ducks, herons, and painted turtles. 

When we leave the Pavilion, we will take a short walk onto RWA property, walk the Red Trail, passing the retention pond, cross the Farm River, and stop at the junction of the White Trail. 

From here, there will be two options to hike:

1 – A fun, very pleasant 2-hour walk in the woods on the flat, main access road.  Out for an hour, then turn around and walk back for another hour.

2 – For the more adventurous – a 4.8 mile hike, that includes a steep ascent up to the ridge, with the reward of some actual vistas, coming down the Vista Trail.  Estimate 3 hours for this hike. 

Meet at Northford Park Pavilion (1827 Middletown Ave) at 9:15 AM. March trails can be unpredictable, please come prepared for weather conditions including mud-ready footwear.