It’s hard to resist a spring outing to the Henry Buck Trail, known for its profusion of native spring wildflowers. The portion of the trail we’ll visit involves some short, moderate climbs with lots to see along the way.
Directions: From route 44, take either route 181 (Ripley Hill Rd.) or route 318 (River Rd.) to where the two intersect at the bridge over the Farmington River (67 Ripley Hill Rd., Pleasant Valley, CT 06063). At the west end of the bridge go north on West River Rd. for 2.5 miles.
Parking: On either side of the “Henry S. Buck Trail” sign there is room for six cars, and shortly before arriving at the trail sign there is a larger area available for more parking.