Pros
Easy to find
Flat trail
Well marked
Brook
Multiple trail extensions
Cons
Fallen trees
Getting to the Trail
From I91 take exit 13. Continue straight through first set of lights. At next set of lights by the green, take a right onto Main St. Continue straight through next set of lights. After about five min. turn left onto Brook Rd. Continue straight. When you see the road start to curve up a hill there will be a gate and dirt parking area on your right. That’s Mink Brook Preserve. There is another trail head entrance at Buck Rd. if you want to try that sometime. You can find directions and a trail map here.
On the Trail
You’ll be walking past people’s backyards on a narrow dirt path surrounded by grass. There looks like there are some trails that meander off but stay straight to remain on the main trail.
After 5-10 minutes you’ll come to this bridge. Going over it will lead to three other trails that are not loops, so you’s have to turn back to get to your car. Continuing left instead of crossing the bridge will lead you to the Tanzi loop by a big boulder or you can continue on the Quinn trail until you reach Rte. 120 and turn around. I saw a woman with a small umbrella stroller on the way out and I bet she could’ve navigated this narrow log suspension bridge.
Unfortunately as of July 22, 2016, when I walked there, there were lots of fallen trees on the path. I had to turn around because climbing over logs with a baby carrier is not my thing. If the trail was cleared it would be a fabulous family walk because it’s flat and easy to follow. There are trail markers too. There’s not much shade though, even in the woods because the trees are spread out and small, but of course I didn’t walk more than about ten minutes before I had to turn back so I don’t know if the shade got any better. I also like how the trail followed a lovely brook. I bet it would be good to dip your feet into.
I’ll have to try this walk another time.
For more information about the preserve including a bear family check out the Hanover Conservancy.
If you try it leave a comment and let me know if it’s been cleared and I’ll update the post.
What’s your favorite Hanover walk?
