The Wonders of New Canaan

Together we will explore the parks and streets of this charming, tony town in Fairfield County. It features some really lovely places that I think you will enjoy checking out: Irwin Park and the Thomas Watson house, the New Canaan Nature Center, the lively downtown area, the attractive public library, Mead Park, Bristow Sanctuary, Lapham Community Center, Carriage Barns Arts Center, and the stunning Waveny Park and mansion. Most of these places we will just admire from the outside, as they are closed on weekends or to non-members. Please note that we will not be stopping at the world famous glass house, which requires a pricey reservation and is just a small building with glass walls.

The terrain will be a mix of suburban sidewalks, mellow paths, and nature trails. There are no steep climbs, but it will be a full day of walking at a moderate pace, covering an estimated distance of 8-9 miles. (The hike is rated moderate under the new system and 3A9 under the old system.) Please dress appropriately for this activity, and pack drinking water and a light lunch. Sunscreen and bug spray would be good to have as well. We will begin our day with a coffee and bathroom break, and there will be a couple of bathroom stops later in the day. At the end of the hike the group may go out for a bite to eat, depending on the weather and how people are feeling, location tbd.

You may post any questions or concerns here. A tip of the hat to the one and only John Carr, who first introduced me (and many others) to this area. We will catch the train that arrives in New Canaan at 11:18 am. It leaves Grand Central at 9:58 am and Harlem-125th Street at 10:12 am. Drivers can meet us at the train station. Please note that you must register in order to participate.

For more information about the Appalachian Mountain Club and its wide range of activities, take a look at outdoors.org.

AMC website listing:
https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UUN0000013CNR2A2/act00013060