Housatonic Overlook & Tucker's Ridge

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Town of Orange open space. Area is open to all because it is partially funded by grants from the DEP.

The trails along Tucker’s Ridge, between the Tenneco Pipeline and the precipitous 200-foot eastern palisade, overlook the Housatonic River with the Town of Shelton directly to the west and Two Mile Island and Derby to the north. With its commanding
view of the Housatonic River, one can visualize Indian sentries keeping a watch for approaching enemy canoes from lookouts along this ridge.

During the winter bald eagles can frequently be seen soaring over the water or sitting in trees on either side of the river. The trail provides various views of the Housatonic as one travels south along Tucker’s Ridge. Just before the trail merges with the pipeline easement, there are some good views of the Housatonic in the southerly direction.

The trail now becomes quite steep descending bedrock before crossing a small stream, draining the northern wetland area, and then climbing up to the level inland trails through a forest with an under story of Mountain Laurel punctuated by picturesque rock outcroppings.

There is a large wetland in the northern section and portions of the trail may be muddy during wet periods, but the deer tracks usually make up for the inconvenience. These trails have been used by local residents for years. The site was acquired by the Town of Orange in 2001. The deed describes the eastern boundary as an Old Highway. It is bounded on both sides by stone walls. The western wall is the Housatonic Overlook boundary line. Part of the eastern section of the trail actually travels outside the Overlook on this old stage coach road.

Directions and Parking:
The scenic part of the trail is best accessed via the northerly parking area at the end of High Ridge Road. Take the Wilbur Cross Parkway to Exit 55 and follow Wheeler’s Farm Road north to Derby-Milford Road. Take a left and then another left onto High Ridge Road.
The southerly parking area at the end of Cedar Grove Street leads directly to the fairly level inland trails. From Wheeler’s Farm Road, take Herbert Street to Wolcott Lane, left on Windy Hill, right on Wagon Trail, right on Broadview Road, a right on Aspen Lane, and a left on Cedar Grove Street.

Permitted Activities:
This property is for passive use only. Hiking all-year round with snowshoeing or cross-country skiing during winter months. Dogs are permitted on leash. Please bag and remove any dog waste.

For more information about this location, contact:
Town of Orange
Conservation Commission
(203) 891-2122, ext 768

Info from: www.scrcog.org/Trails_files/TrailMapOrangeHousatonicOve...