From its southern terminus in Wolcott, the Mattatuck Trail follows a northwesterly route to the Mattatuck State Forest and Black Rock State Park. The trail ascends along the western ridges of the Waterbury Reservoirs with breathtaking views to the north. In Litchfield, the Mattatuck Trail passes through the White Memorial Conservation Center, a 4,000 acre wildlife sanctuary which includes a network of supplementary side trails.
After a brief interruption, the trail resumes in Warren in the Wyantenock State Forest, quickly entering City of Waterbury Shepaug Reservoir land and Warren Land Trust open space property. The trail traverses rugged terrain featuring mountain laurel, seasonal views of the reservoirs to the east, streams and marshes, and deep woodlands.
The northernmost section of the Mattatuck Trail travels through the Mohawk State Forest in Cornwall, one of the most scenic woodland areas in Connecticut. Meandering beside streams and through rock walls, the trail climbs Mohawk Mountain and offers outstanding panoramic views of western Connecticut and the hills of New York. The Mattatuck's northern terminus is at its junction with the Blue-blazed Mohawk Trail.
Mattatuck was the Native American name for the intervale between Waterville and Naugatuck. A derivation of the Native expression Matetacoke, it roughly translates as "the place without trees" or "the badly wooded land." The word was used in 17th Century deeds and Colonial records to describe the area known today as Greater Waterbury.
Notice a trail problem? Please report it to CFPA at this link.
For more information, visit the Connecticut Forest & Park Association website or contact:
There are a number of access points to the Mattatuck Trail:
Southern trailhead: Mad River Road
Northern trailhead: Toomey Road
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