Mamacoke Island

Mamacoke Island

Town: Waterford

Directions: Traveling I-95 north, take exit 82A (Frontage Road, New London); at end of exit, turn left on Briggs Street; After about a third of a mile, take a slight right onto Mohegan Avenue; Mohegan Ave. turns into Route 32; Follow Rt. 32 for 8/10 of a mile, then turn right at the light onto Benham Ave.

Traveling I-95 south, take Exit 84E for Route 32 north; Merge onto Rt. 32 north and travel about 1.3 miles until taking a right at the light onto Benham Avenue.

Where to Park: A small, unmarked parking area with space for several cars is on your left, facing a field, after crossing the railroad tracks.

Description: Mamacoke Island is a 40-acre island with a trail that is surprisingly diverse, challenging and untouched. The trail around the island travels up and down hills, through sand flats, and rewards the hiker with some phenomenal views of the Thames River and surrounding area. Total hike is about 2 hours. Long pants are suggested because of areas of thick brush and prickers.

Regulations: No running allowed. The island is a sensitive property kept as a natural area to discourage heavy usage.

Amenities: None.

Natural Features: Hardwood forest, two small coves, an abundance of birds including ducks, geese, ospreys, swans and herons.

Fees: Free.

Things to note: Good hiking shoes are recommended as the trail includes rocky areas, hills, roots and a variety of terrain. The trail also includes minimal markings. And bring a camera - there are a number of scenic spots along the way.

Owned by: Connecticut College Arboretum

More information: Arboretum: http://arboretum.conncoll.edu

Also, The Connecticut Audubon Society describes some of the area and its wildlife at http://ct.audubon.org/IBA_MI.html