Poquetanuck Cove Preserve

Town: Ledyard

Directions: Take 395 northbound to exit 79A-Route 2A; follow bridge over the Thames River, continue on 2A to center of Poquetanuck Village; right onto Cider Mill Road; turns into Avery Hill Road. Entrance is .9 miles on the right.

Where to Park: Dirt parking lot for several cars at the trailhead.

Description: 234-acre preserve with 1.5-mile marked easy-to-moderate trail. There is one steep section leading towards the cove that can be slippery after rainfall. This property was donated to the conservancy in 1988 by Desire Parker.

Regulations: No dogs; pedestrians only; no hunting or fishing.

Amenities: None.

Natural Features: Trail passes through hardwood, pine, hemlock ravine habitats and beautiful views of the cove, the only freshwater tidal marsh on the Thames River. Despite its proximity to the region's two casinos, the area is quiet and peaceful.

Fees: Free.

Things to note: Canoe/kayak access to the cove is located nearby: from Cider Mill Road, take the second right onto Arrowhead Drive; follow to end and turn right. Make sure to check tides and start and end paddle before low tide.

Owned by: The Connecticut Chapter of The Nature Conservancy

More information: http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/connecticut/preserves/art5371.html