Estimated distance: 2.6 miles
Weather: 68°F, scattered clouds
Resources: Scantic River Park Map, American Heritage River Commission Facebook Page
Highlights of the trip: new bridge
Progress toward NET Hike 50 Challenge: 10.5/50 miles completed
I have long wanted to participate in CT Forest & Park Association's Trails Weekend, and I finally made it happen this year. I selected a hike in East Windsor that was along the Scantic River. The parking for this event was at the end of Melrose Road on the east side of the river. From the map, you can see that there is a Melrose Road on the other side of the river, but the road is not connected.
When I arrived, there were quite a few cars already lining the road and as I looked down to the end, there was a group of people all wearing the same color shirt. Also, the person I parked behind had legislative plates on their car. Ugh. What was I getting into? I thought I was just going for a hike.
It turns out, that the American Heritage River Commission, who had organized this hike, was having a ribbon cutting for the new bridge that had been laid down. It was placed within the framework of the old Melrose Road Bridge. The ribbon cutting and speech took very little time and then we were off on our hike. I do not remember the name of the trails, but they make a big loop. First we climbed up along the ridge and then came down and walked back along the river.
The river was very shallow and I don't think it would be good for kayaking right now. When we got back, I checked out the new bridge. I have included pictures of the signs that were on display.
On the far side of the bridge, the volunteers have just started clearing a path that follows the old road bed. It is still pretty rough, and it looks like it took a lot of work. A lot of undergrowth. I don't know if they plan on continuing it all the way to the western part of Melrose Road. During the dedication of the bridge, someone in the audience was explaining that this used to be the main road for the farms to get their goods to the Connecticut River. It makes sense if you look at a map. Melrose Road runs straight into Route 140 which continues straight to the Connecticut River.
One of the highlights of this hike for me was speaking with the hike leader after the event. I had been on the hike by myself, and didn't know anyone, so felt a little out of place. After speaking with the leader and learning more about the work the Commission has done and other activities they organize, I left feeling glad that I had attended.
