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Stratton Brook is a model for universal accessibility among Connecticut state parks. Parking, picnicking, rest-room and water use are all adapted for wheelchair access. Short sections of the trails are also accessible.
Originally called Massacoe State Forest, this tract was acquired in 1908 as a field laboratory to test means of preventing forest fires caused by spark-spewing steam locomotives.
Today the erstwhile Central New England Railroad right of way has been converted to a bike trail that traverses about half a mile of the park and links to more rail-trail mileage outside. A spur off that trail runs across the Massacoe Pond dam and to Route 167. A couple miles of foot trails also course through the southeast end of the park.
Massacoe Pond, created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, is stocked with brook and rainbow trout for fishing. A second pond, with swimming beach, was constructed in 1965.
In winter, the main gates are closed and the park isn't staffed, but the ponds attract ice skaters and the trails draw cross-country skiers.
There is a parking fee daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
The park is located on Farms Village Road in Simsbury.
Outdoor Activities |
