With 30+ miles of trails in Vernon, CT; including 3 trails along the Hockanum* Rive, the Dart Hill North Path is probably is one of the most scenic, hilly and tranquil of all the trails along the Hockanum River(there are also Dart Hill South, of which you can go West or East) About 1.4 miles one way; there are also connecting loops of 0.3 and 0.4 miles. It parallels the river, winding through a lush green forest valley totally away from all intrusions of traffic noise. Dart Hill North also includes seating at various points for privacy and reflection. Happy Hiking! Parking can be found at 3 places: 1) At the north end of the trail, on the grass at the Waste Treatment Plant off Windsorville Road(Rte.74) 2) At the mid-point of the trail, at the south end of a parking strip next to Paul’s Pizza. 3) At the south end of the trail, on the parking lot for the Dart Hill North Park on Dart Hill Road.
Don P.
Place rating: 4 East Longmeadow, MA
This is a very small trail on the right, near the cross roads of Rt.83 down a ways on Dart Hill Rd heading toward Thrall Rd. Vernon. The trail facilitates a nice easy nature walk, especially if you have smaller children in tow. There are plenty of species of birds and assorted wildlife along this section of the Hockanum River, providing interesting opportunities for children to observe, discuss and learn about nature’s habitat. The Trail is not much more than a mile round-trip from the parking lot but it does provide wonderful scenic beauty smack dab in the midst of a residential area. HRPT is very unique and I consider it to be a hidden gem in this section of Vernon.
