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Parker Harding Lot

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Parker Harding Lot is a paved sidewalk with benches overlooking the Saugatuck River.
Trail Activity
Accessible Experience Hiking Walking Bicycling
Length
0.2 miles, One Way
Difficulty
Easy
Town
Westport
Surface
Boardwalk, Paved/Cement
Pets
Permitted
Fees
No

Description

This paved sidewalk winds along the Saugatuck River. Benches and a seawall allow for views overlooking the water, and make this a popular spot for bag lunches and sunning. The raised, wooden walkway and observation platform extending over the marsh at the northern end is currently closed, reopening is expected.

The character of the Saugatuck River changes considerably as it rises and falls approximately seven feet with the changing tides. At low tide look for gulls, terns, egrets and other shorebirds. In the winter, several species of northern waterfowl may be seen when the tide is high, including bufflehead, common goldeneye and red breasted merganser.

Walking south along the river and across Post Road, leads to the the Library Riverwalk and Garden along the river's edge. Jesup Green is to the east.

Other Information

Some parts might not be easily accessible to people using a wheelchair or with a disability because of the curbs.

Trail Manager

Town of Westport, Parks and Recreation
260 Compo Road South
Westport, CT 06880
(203) 341-5090
https://www.westportct.gov/government/departments-a-z/parks-and-recreation

Trail Tips

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Avoid hypothermia, even in warm weather, by limiting your sweat and exposure to cold water. Bring warm and dry clothes in case the shivers set in.

Trailhead Information

From I-95

From I-95, take Exit 18 and head north on Sherwood Island Connector. Take a left on Post Road East. Continue on Post Road East until you reach the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Memorial Bridge. Take a right at the light just before the bridge onto the Parker Harding parking lot. The paved trail is across the street, between road and river.

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