Hayes Woods

Location – GCT 14

West Groton with parking available on Maple Avenue.

Hours

Trails open dawn to dusk.

History

Joseph and Elsa Hayes made a gift of this 46-acre parcel to the Groton Conservation Trust in 1994.  We are all indebted to them for sharing this beautiful place with us.

Description

The Hayes Woods parcel has an extensive trail network that connects to other open land. It includes glacial terrain including kettles, wetlands, and nature trail. There are several points at which views are available. The property serves as a sanctuary for plants and animals and contains a variety of important habitats. Maintenance of these habitats and refuges is a critical goal.

Guidelines

A full range of non-motorized activities are allowed including: Horse-back riding; Mountain biking; Hiking; Trail running; Snowshoeing; Nordic skiing; Nature study; and Photography.

Interactive Trail Map

Hayes Woods

Station 1: Welcome!

Station 2: Natives and Invasives

Station 3: Pond Critters and Chestnut

Station 4: Glacial Geology

Station 5: Lady’s Slipper and Star Flower

Station 6: Birch

Station 7: Dead Wood Benefits + Birdsong

Station 8: Hemlock

Station 9: Pines + Blueberries

Station 10: Oaks

Station 11: Beaver Pond

Station 12: Light Gap, Pileated Nest

Station 13: Linking Undeveloped Land

Station 14: Lone Wolf Pine

Station 15: Ferns + Poison Ivy

Station 16: Princess Pine and Mountain Laurel

Acknowledgements

References/Further Reading