Rosedale Farms

ACREAGE: 109 • YEAR ACQUIRED: 2004

Location

Use the Rosedale Farms store entrance off East Weatogue Street. Park in the parking lot at the rear of the store. The trail begins at the SLT kiosk and follows the existing farm road. Please stay on the path and follow the signs on your right. The area closes at sunset. Dogs are not allowed.

Distance

1.1 miles round trip. This is not a loop trail.

Terrain

Level.

Features

Rosedale Farms is a historic working farm whose agricultural character is permanently protected by a Simsbury Land Trust conservation easement. Rosedale Farms consists of 109 acres of fine agricultural soil. The farm abuts and protects 1,400 feet of Farmington River frontage and associated wetlands. The mix of fields, woods and waterways provides rich wildlife habitat and is part of the Farmington River wildlife corridor. Educational signage is present at the edge of the trail, describing the farmland soils, local geology, and the history of Rosedale Farms.

The trail follows the existing farm road past fruit trees and the entrance to the seasonal corn maze (tickets for the maze are available in the late summer and fall at the farm store). Take a moment to explore the native plant garden that has been planted near the bend of the trail near an old farm pond. The trail continues along the edges of the fields, across a small ravine, towards the Farmington River. The end of the trail offers an opportunity to enjoy glimpses of various birds and other wildlife to be found near the river and surrounding habitats.

Note: This trail is subject to closure at times to accommodate farm operations.