First Day Hike: New Year's On The AT

Start the New Year off right! Take a hike on the historic Appalachian Trail to one of the most beautiful views in Connecticut, Rand's View. The hike begins near Great Falls and climbs away to Mt Prospect before descending to an expansive view of AT peaks to the north including Bear Mountain, Mt Race and Mt Everett.

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The 4.5 mile out-and-back hike is open to all and is suitable for beginner's looking to hike for the first time, intermediates who like rewarding views or individuals looking to get out in the winter. Depending on our time and pace, there will also be an option to add in an extra 2 miles for a view of Giant's Thumb. There is no cost to attend this special, free event. Space is limited. RSVP is required. Waiver/Assumption of Risk documents will be on hand to sign. This event will be held rain, snow or shine.

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The gear and clothing listed below is recommended for any time you are out on the trail and for this trip. Not only is it important for us to bring these items, but it is equally important to know how to use them as well. For a deeper look at the Ten Essentials, please feel free to watch the video at the link provided by clicking here. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch with me: Mat, matjobin@reachyoursummit.net

Ten Essentials:

- Map & Compass

- Sun Protection

- Warm Clothing (No Cotton)

- Headlamp or Flashlight

- First-Aid Kit & Whistle

- Multi-tool (or Knife) & Repair Kit

- Matches or Lighter

- Extra Food

- Water

- Emergency Shelter

Additional Considerations For The Area & Time Of Year:

- Wear Bright Colors (No Cotton or Blue Jeans)

- 16 to 30 Liter Backpack

- Sturdy Winter Footwear (Hiking shoes, Hiking boots)

- Traction Device (Snowshoes, Microspikes)*

- Gloves, Mittens, Hat

- Gaiters

- Hand Sanitizer

- Trekking Poles

- Personal Medications

- Camera

- Trash Compactor Bag or Rain Cover

- Hand Warmers

*Please dress for winter weather and plan on bringing a form of traction to get around. You may contact me at anytime if you have questions regarding what would be suitable for this hike. Inappropriate wear and equipment may make the hike more difficult for you and impact the other hikers. It is not my intention to embarrass any hiker, but if you arrive unprepared you will not be able to join the hike.

Directions:

From Hartford, CT:

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- Take I-84W toward Waterbury

- Take exit 39 toward Farmington/CT-4

- Stay on CT-4 W (Spielman Hwy)

- Turn right onto Birge Park Rd (CT-4 W)

- Turn left onto E Main St (CT-4 W)

- Turn right onto E Elm St (CT-4 W)

- At the rotary take the first exit onto CT-63

- Turn left onto CT-126 N

- Turn left onto Railroad St

- Turn right onto Sand Rd/Water St

- Slight right onto Housatonic River Rd

- Parking will be ahead on the right in parking area for Great Falls Reservoir (Great Falls Reservoir Salisbury, CT 06031)

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GPS Coordinates: 41.963413, -73.373009 - Great Falls Reservoir parking

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