Richardson Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 109 acres, is named for the brook at its southern boundary. The wildlife sanctuary offers a challenging trail that meanders by numerous large trees and boulders, an interesting stone structure, and finally to Richardson Brook itself.

• Three species of salamanders live in the cool, clear waters of Richardson Brook. 
• Stone walls, rock piles, and the skeletal remains of red cedar are an indication that the upper portions of the sanctuary were open fields.
• The waters from Richardson Brook, eventually flow into the Farmington River,  an important water supply for Hartford.
• Impressive specimens of red oak, sugar maple, white pine, eastern hemlock, black birch, and American beech.

Explore 1.6 miles of trails at Richardson Brook Wildlife Sanctuary. Trails are marked with yellow and blue plastic disks. Blue indicates you are moving away from the parking, and yellow returns you to the parking area.

Please Note: Surfaces are irregular with many exposed rocks, boulders, and tree roots. There are long sloping sections that may be difficult for some hikers. Portions of trails may be wet in early spring or after heavy rainfalls.

Charlotte W. Clark Loop Trail 0.6 miles
Look for signs of past land use along this trail: rock walls, rock piles, wolf trees, and the skeletal remains of red cedar, a tree often associated with abandoned fields and pastures. There is an impressive glacial boulder of the native bedrock next to the trail.

Richardson Brook Trail 1 mile
This trail leads down to Richardson Brook and requires an uphill return hike. Look for stately trees of various species and walk along the picturesque brook. Can you guess what the low rock structure is?