Nature Conservancy Gladys Foster Preserve Trailhead

"A great hiking experience. Offers views and challenging terrain."

"Dog walkers beware: took my dog on the trail on 30 May 2023 and we were approached at 0.8 miles from the trailhead on Ryder Road by a wandering Great Dane (black color) without an owner. He attacked my dog and I had to spray him with pepper spray to get him to back off. We were within site of a house through the woods but no one came despite my yelling for help. My dog was leashed and we were on the trail. The animal control officer of North Stonington has been alerted and is investigating. The trail itself is lovely and well marked."

"So beautiful and quiet in the winter. There is some up and down elevation in the first mile but once you get to the Brook it is mostly level. Tons of beautiful stone walls, hemlock grove and Brook crossings. Only room for a couple of cars to park roadside. Preserve sign is set off about 50’ off the road."

"This is a nice hike with beautiful deep woods. Initially, it can be a bit steep, but it does level off making it a nice hike for bird watching and mushroom hunting. Pleasant overall hike."

"Watch for a small pull off for parking. No formal parking lot is available. The sign for Nature Conservancy land is set back from the road and slightly hidden. A short hike leads to an overlook. Further down the trail much beaver activity may be seen."