On Sunday, April 7 at 2:00 p.m., join naturalists from the Branford Land Trust on a walk to welcome the signs of spring! As we hike around the Goss and Vedder properties and over the historic Trolley Trail, we can expect to see ospreys recently returned to their nests in the tidal marshes, spring wildflowers in bloom, and trees newly in leaf. We’ll meet in Stony Creek, near the ball field at the far end of West Point Road across from the Willoughby Wallace Library.
The Trolley Trail has long been a favorite among Branford residents, offering an intimate view of the tidal wetlands and a chance to observe osprey nesting on one of the many platforms established by the Branford Land Trust. It is complemented by the 15-acred wooded Goss Preserve (west) and the Vedder Preserve (east) along Pleasant Point Road. From the Vedder monument, you’ll have remarkable views of Long Island Sound, the salt marsh, the Trolley Trail, and the Thimble Islands.
There will be two options for this walk: a longer walk on the white trail loop over Pleasant Point Road; following the Trolley trail across Tilcon Road; to the red trail loop around Goss Preserve and back. If there’s time, we might explore Snake Island as well, for 2.7 miles walk. For shorter options, walkers are welcome to skip the Goss and Snake Island portion of the hike, or can turn around at any time.
The event is free and open to the public. Families are welcome, but no dogs please. Please wear appropriate dress and comfortable, supportive walking shoes. While the Trolley Trail section of the walk is on even ground, both the white trail and red trail loops tend toward rocky underfooting with some hills. Bring water. Walking sticks welcome.
Photo by Clare Hambly, courtesy of the Branford Land Trust
