Spring Hike Bluff Point State Park
Bluff Point State Park in nearby Groton is 778 acres of undeveloped land, a wooded peninsula that juts out into Long Island Sound. Combining coastal woodlands, beach and dune grasslands, coastal plain ponds, coastal bluff, tidal wetlands, intertidal mud flats, and offshore eelgrass beds. The Pequot Indians lived and thrived here around 1614 and must have had an abundance of fish and shellfish to eat.
Fishing, hiking, small boat ramp, swimming, biking, field trips, geology and birding. We hiked it a few weeks back, 3.45 miles of mostly large wide trails, great views and it was fun to learn about the history of the area. In 1975 it was designated a Coastal Reserve, "for the purpose of preserving its native ecological associations, unique faunal and floral characteristics, geological features, and scenic qualities in a condition of undisturbed integrity".
We saw hikers, mt. bikers, a school field trip, and joggers. There is a beautiful beach, historic Sunset Rock, and the stone foundation of Governor John Winthrop Jr.'s house from 1648. There are kiosks throughout noting the history and wildlife on the point. Wikipedia has an informative piece on Bluff Point State Park.
The day was perfect and the views spectacular. New London Ledge Lighthouse to the west which also has quite a history.
The main hiking trails.
Lots of shells.
In the heyday there were not many trees so at sunset people would visit the rock to view the sunset.
The foundation of the Winthrop Homestead.
We could see other paths possibly for Mountain Bikes or Horses.
We enjoyed our hike. Its always good to hike with others, more fun too.
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