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Places We Protect

Cathedral Pines Preserve

Connecticut

Looking up through a canopy of a hemlock tree.
Placeholder Eastern hemlock. © Kent Mason

Witness the remains of what was once the largest stand of old-growth white pine and hemlock trees in New England.

Viewing

Overview

Description

Why You Should Visit

New England's largest stand of old-growth white pine and hemlock trees was devastated by three tornadoes in July 1989. The existing trail at Cathedral Pines traverses the remaining intact portion of the stand.

Why TNC Selected This Site

The preserve was donated to the Conservancy in 1967 by three members of the Calhoun family: Jean C. Bacon, and John and Frank Calhoun. The family originally bought the property in 1883 to prevent its being logged.

What TNC Has Done/Is Doing

Ecologists seek out this site to better understand the dynamics of forest succession—the slow process of a forest's regrowth and rejuvenation.

Access

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Hours

<p>Dawn to dusk</p>

Size

42 acres

Explore our work in this region

Conditions

A short trail begins at the parking area.

What to See: Plants

White pine and hemlock trees.

What to See: Animals

Keep an eye and ear out for woodpeckers among the fallen trees.

Please enjoy your visit to this preserve. The Nature Conservancy welcomes passive recreation, including hiking, birding, canoeing, nature study and cross-country skiing.

To ensure those who visit after you are able to enjoy the same experience you have, please remember to stay on designated trails, pack out everything you brought in, and contact our office at: 203-568-6270 or ct@tnc.org if you notice any problems.

To maintain the ecological integrity of the preserve, the following activities are not allowed: collection of plant or animal specimens, camping, fires, fishing, hunting, bicycling, and use of motorized vehicles. Pets are not allowed on Nature Conservancy preserves.