Connecticut – Connecticut Forest and Park Association

The East‑West Trail

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Summary

When complete, the East‑West Trail will stretch 53 miles across 8 towns and connect the 2 National Scenic Trails that cross Connecticut ‑ the NET and the AT. This project is focused on Phase I (of 2 phases) to work with volunteers and partners to plan, scout, build, and blaze the first 20 miles of the East‑West Trail on the ground. As sections are completed, the trail will also be added to CFPA’s online, interactive trail map which will catalyze interest, awareness and use of this new trail.

Project Description

Connecticut’s geology and road system dictates that CFPA’s long distance trails run north and south, and the New England Trail (NET) and Appalachian Trail (AT) are no exceptions. The East‑West Trail will run east to west and connect the nation’s newest national scenic trail (NET) with its oldest (AT), from Penwood State Park in Simsbury, northwestward to the Appalachian Trail in Canaan. Phase I will focus on establishing the trail in four towns where it will traverse a diverse landscape of private, municipal, water company and state lands.. The trail will truly be a partnership project with CFPA leading the way and taking primary responsibility for the trail’s development and maintenance. . CFPA’s Trail Stewardship Director will work closely with volunteers and partners to solidify landowner permission, scout and flag the route, determine project priorities, schedule volunteer work parties, organize an AHS volunteer vacation, apply for and manage an AmeriCorps NCCC team, determine best locations for parking and trailheads, and begin construction of this long distance hiking trail. CFPA will employ best practices in trail layout and design and will account for slope and grade to create a trail that is both incredibly sustainable and connects incredible open space.

The East‑West Trail has been a goal of CFPA’s for the past ten years and groundwork has already been laid with numerous partners including the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, local land trusts, municipalities, fellow conservation organizations, and trail partners. All of whom share this grand vision for a long‑distance east to west connection across the northern tier of Connecticut’s landscape.

VOTING OPENS SEPTEMBER FIRST TO OCTOBER 31.  CAST YOUR VOTE HERE SUPERIORTRAILS.MICHELOBULTRA.COM.