Entrance, Orchard Glen Trail

"I had to drive someone to Wallingford Connecticut and while I was there I looked up the closest hiking trail. I picked Orchard Glen because it was nearby but when I got there I was confused about where to park because all the parking lots nearby were for authorized vehicles only. I ended up parking down the road in an office parking lot and walked back to the trail. It was a quiet day since most people were working and I had the trail to myself for the most part. I saw some tiny waterfalls in the stream and walked over some boards to cross the river. I should have brought my hiking poles but I didn’t think it would be a difficult hike with streams to cross, but I managed ok once I found a good walking stick. I came out into a clearing under the powerlines and heard and saw so many birds. It started to snow gently and I stood still enjoying the snow and the bird calls. I also spotted some animal tracks before I turned back to walk back to the car. I ended up taking a wrong turn and discovered that someone built a huge lean to from fallen branches and it looked really cool. I made my way back to my car, but if I lived nearby I would definitely come back for a longer hike and some more birdwatching."

"Good trail, but the noise from the highway is annoying, you can practically hear it the entire hike."

"Perfect winter day for a walk. Orchard Glen Trail is a 2.1 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Wallingford, Connecticut that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash."

"Great hike when you only have a few hours but want to feel lost in nature. The trail is marked with land trust markers but it's not well marked as to which trail goes in which direction once you get a few minutes into the hike. It does loop around but there are alternate side trails as well. I only found the waterfall once and I've been there about 4 times, but I didn't check any maps online which may give you a direct route. I just go there to meander and reconnect w nature and this trail offers me a chance to do just that."

"This gem is part of a network of trails managed by Wallingford Land Trust. It is by far my favorite, and even though it's 2 miles (per trail map), you can easily go off trail and explore without fear of getting lost. We clocked almost 5 miles today going off trail etc. Trail was superbly maintained. Late spring is the best time to visit, as the watersheds are vibrant. There is running water everywhere, a large waterfall and a few smaller falls along the way. First trail loops through woodland. You'll cross water via little plank 'bridges' so wear sturdy /waterproof shoes!. Trails can be muddy also. Second loop adds some sunny meadowland and scenic high points along the high voltage lines, with some rocky terrain. All around beautiful spot to find native wildflowers, encounter a deer or two and listen to songbirds. Not at all crowded today, but nice to run into other hikers and families from time to time. Bring something to snap pics, and don't forget the water!"