As visitors to the Windsor Locks Canal State Park Trail know, the towpath part of the trail is closed to the public from November 15 to April 1. Friends of the Windsor Locks Canal have been doing what they can to prepare the trail for folks who are counting the days until they can access the towpath on opening day.
Tree down on towpath.
Heavy winds and rain earlier this winter caused several trees to come down blocking access to parts of the towpath. Members of the Friends work crew cleared the path allowing for access in preparation for any emergency. Mother Nature left quite a mess!
COVID restrictions brought an influx of new visitors to the park and trail. Many have become fans of this beautiful gem right here in our area that can be accessed from both Suffield and Windsor Locks.
During the last couple of years, the Friends group designed, built and installed seven new benches along the trail. Most of them were placed on the towpath in spots that allow views of the Connecticut River and where wildlife can be observed.
Additionally, in our efforts to inform visitors about the workings of the canal structure, its historical significance and environmental surroundings, members have built and installed twelve of the planned fifteen numbered Points of Interest posts along the trail. A brochure with numbers corresponding to the numbered posts has been prepared. Visitors can match the number on the post to the corresponding number in the brochure for an explanation of each sight and its particular significance. The brochures can be found in the pamphlet box on the shed as you enter the trail. Many informational postings can also be found on that shed; check them out!
Graffiti has been a never-ending problem for us. We paint it over as quickly as we can, but paint is costly, and it takes time.
We look forward to the return of visitors. If you haven’t visited the park and trail, we encourage you to “come-on-down!” You can walk, bike, fish or just enjoy the quiet rumble of the water as it passes. Entrance in Suffield is at the end of Canal Road off Route 159. You can also enter from Windsor Locks via Bank Street behind the Montgomery Building.
Friends of the Windsor Locks Canal is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization which was established in 2004 to maintain the park and trail. Volunteers are the backbone of our organization. If you have a little time and would like to join us in our efforts, give me a call at 860-668-0505 or stop by the Canal and speak with Jonathan. The best time to catch him is Tuesday mornings at the Suffield entrance.
We appreciate the support of visitors, donors and the community we serve.