Silvermine-Fowler Preserve (NCLT)

For residents of Connecticut, especially those living in the charming town of New Canaan, discovering accessible and beautiful natural areas for outdoor recreation is a true gift. The Silvermine-Fowler Preserve, managed by the dedicated New Canaan Land Trust (NCLT) and located at 763 Silvermine Rd, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA, is just such a treasure. This expansive 47.2-acre preserve offers a serene escape into mature woodlands and diverse landscapes, providing a perfect setting for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and families looking to connect with the outdoors right in their own community. It’s more than just a place to walk; it’s a commitment to preserving the natural beauty that defines our region.

The Silvermine-Fowler Preserve holds a special place in the New Canaan Land Trust's extensive network of protected lands. It officially opened to the public in October 2017, coinciding with the NCLT's 50th Anniversary, marking a significant milestone in local conservation efforts. The preserve is named in part to honor award-winning zoologist and longtime New Canaan resident Jim Fowler, renowned for his work on "Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom," who previously owned a portion of the land. This historical connection to a celebrated conservationist further highlights the preserve's natural importance.

This preserve is a testament to the power of community-driven conservation. The New Canaan Land Trust meticulously stewards this land to promote native habitats, provide recreational opportunities, and maintain the scenic beauty of New Canaan. They work tirelessly to ensure the trails are well-maintained and accessible, creating a welcoming environment for all visitors. As one satisfied local reviewer noted, it boasts "Beautiful woodlands with wide, well-maintained trails. Perfect for hiking with your dog or kids." This commitment to providing a high-quality, natural experience makes the Silvermine-Fowler Preserve an invaluable asset for locals, offering a peaceful and invigorating outdoor experience without requiring a long journey. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, this preserve offers a wonderful way to experience the tranquility and beauty of Connecticut's natural landscape.

The Silvermine-Fowler Preserve is conveniently located at 763 Silvermine Rd, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA. This address serves as a primary access point for the preserve, situated within the scenic Silvermine area, which borders Norwalk and Wilton. Its location in southwestern Connecticut makes it highly accessible for residents of New Canaan and neighboring towns within Fairfield County.

For those traveling by car, the preserve is easily reached via local roads. From major routes like the Merritt Parkway, you would typically take Exit 38 (Route 123/New Canaan Ave) and then navigate towards Silvermine Road. Ample parking is available at the designated parking lot at the base of the driveway for 765 Silvermine Road, which serves as a common entry point for the preserve. There is also another entry across the street from 161 Cedar Lane, offering multiple points of access for visitors.

Public transportation directly to the Silvermine-Fowler Preserve is not generally available, as is common with many natural preserves in more suburban and rural parts of Connecticut. However, New Canaan is served by the Metro-North Railroad's New Haven Line, with a station in downtown New Canaan. From the New Canaan train station, a short taxi or rideshare service would be necessary to reach the preserve on Silvermine Road. For most local residents, driving or biking from nearby neighborhoods will be the most practical and convenient methods of accessing this natural haven. The well-maintained trails and clear signage contribute to the ease of navigation once inside the preserve, ensuring a pleasant hiking experience.

The trails within the Silvermine-Fowler Preserve are described as well-maintained, but as with any natural hiking area, they consist of natural surfaces such as dirt, roots, and potentially rocks or uneven terrain. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear suitable for hiking. The New Canaan Land Trust works diligently to maintain its trails, including efforts to increase accessibility by installing raised walkways and removing obstacles on other preserves, suggesting a similar commitment to trail quality at Silvermine-Fowler. However, specific ADA accessibility information for the entire trail system should be confirmed with the New Canaan Land Trust directly if needed.

Services Offered:

• Hiking and Walking Trails: Offers a 1.3-mile network of well-maintained trails that wind through woodlands, providing opportunities for various lengths of walks and hikes.
• Dog-Friendly Environment: Dogs are permitted on the trails but must be kept on a leash, making it an excellent spot for walking your canine companions.
• Nature Observation & Wildlife Viewing: Provides a habitat for a variety of local wildlife, including owls, red-tailed hawks, heron, wood ducks, mallards, frogs, and fox, offering opportunities for bird watching and observing animals in their natural setting.
• Community Engagement: The New Canaan Land Trust hosts various events such as guided hikes, lectures, and volunteer days to connect the community with the preserve.
• Environmental Stewardship: The preserve is actively managed by the NCLT to promote native habitats, remove invasive species, and ensure the long-term health of the ecosystem.
• Quiet Recreation: Offers a peaceful and serene environment for individuals or families seeking a tranquil escape into nature.
• Photography Opportunities: The diverse landscapes and wildlife provide excellent subjects for nature photography throughout the seasons.

Features / Highlights:

• 47.2 Acres of Natural Beauty: A substantial protected area offering diverse landscapes for exploration.
• Well-Maintained and Wide Trails: Praised by visitors for their quality, making them suitable for families and dog walkers.
• Mixed Hardwood Trees: Features a rolling landscape with a variety of trees, including oak, birch, beech, hickory, and maple, creating beautiful forest scenery.
• Former Jim Fowler Property: Includes land once owned by the famous zoologist Jim Fowler of "Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom" fame, adding to its unique history and conservation significance.
• Planned Wildflower Meadow: Efforts are underway to convert a former house site into a wildflower meadow, promoting native plant species and supporting bee, butterfly, and bird populations.
• Stone Walls and Historic Features: The preserve likely retains classic New England stone walls and other historical elements characteristic of the region.
• "Counsel Ring" Seating Area: Features a unique seating area, possibly an Eagle Scout project, offering a spot for reflection.
• Connection to Still Pond: While officially "Still Pond Preserve" to the NCLT, the Silvermine-Fowler Preserve (also known as Fowler Preserve) forms part of a larger interconnected area, including access to Still Pond views.
• Open Dawn to Dusk: Accessible for public use during daylight hours year-round.

As a cherished nature preserve managed by the New Canaan Land Trust (NCLT), the Silvermine-Fowler Preserve primarily offers free public access to its trails and natural beauty, rather than commercial promotions. Its inherent value as a preserved open space is its most significant offering to the community.

However, the NCLT frequently organizes a variety of free or low-cost community events and programs that provide unique opportunities to engage with the preserve and other NCLT properties. These can be considered "promotions" in the sense that they enhance the visitor experience and offer educational value to locals. Such events include:

• Guided Hikes and Nature Walks: The NCLT regularly hosts naturalist-led walks across its preserves, often at Silvermine-Fowler, providing insights into local ecology, bird species, and plant life. These are excellent opportunities for deeper learning and appreciation.
• Volunteer Days: Opportunities for locals to participate in trail maintenance, invasive species removal, and habitat restoration projects within the preserve. This allows community members to directly contribute to and invest in the health of the land.
• Campfires and Outdoor Gatherings: Occasionally, the NCLT may organize special events like campfires, offering a unique way to experience the preserve in the evening.
• Educational Lectures: While not always held directly at the preserve, the NCLT hosts lectures on conservation and nature-related topics that inform and inspire the community.
• "Last Saturday on the Trail" Outings: A successful program designed to get hundreds of nature enthusiasts onto NCLT preserves, providing a platform for people to enjoy the outdoors and learn more about the natural world.

To stay informed about these valuable community initiatives and any specific events that might be held at the Silvermine-Fowler Preserve, locals are strongly encouraged to visit the official website of the New Canaan Land Trust (www.newcanaanlandtrust.org). Their events calendar and news section are the best resources for up-to-date information on upcoming activities and ways to get involved.

Contact Information:

Address: 763 Silvermine Rd, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA

Phone: (203) 972-1270

Mobile Phone: +1 203-972-1270

Website: www.newcanaanlandtrust.org (The official website for the New Canaan Land Trust, which manages the preserve.)

Email: info@newcanaanlandtrust.org (General inquiry email for the NCLT)

For the most current information regarding trail conditions, specific event details, or general inquiries about the Silvermine-Fowler Preserve, contacting the New Canaan Land Trust directly via their phone number or website is recommended.

The Silvermine-Fowler Preserve is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in New Canaan, CT, and indeed, for anyone in the surrounding Fairfield County area seeking a high-quality outdoor experience. Its primary appeal lies in its combination of natural beauty, well-maintained trails, and the dedicated stewardship of the New Canaan Land Trust.

For hikers and walkers, the 1.3 miles of trails traversing 47.2 acres of diverse woodlands offer a refreshing escape. As reviewers highlight, the trails are "beautiful" and "well-maintained," making them enjoyable for all skill levels, from families with children to individuals seeking a peaceful stroll. The dog-friendly policy (on-leash) means that furry family members can also enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings.

Beyond recreation, the preserve is a vital ecological asset. Its diverse landscape of mixed hardwoods provides critical habitat for a variety of local wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and nature observation. The ongoing efforts to establish a wildflower meadow further enhance its biodiversity and appeal. The NCLT's commitment to conservation, combined with their engaging community programs like guided hikes and volunteer days, ensures that the Silvermine-Fowler Preserve remains not just a beautiful place, but a living testament to environmental stewardship. It's a readily accessible, tranquil, and enriching space that truly enhances the quality of life for Connecticut locals, offering a vital connection to our natural heritage right in our own community.

Silvermine-Fowler Preserve (NCLT)

763 Silvermine Rd, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA