Brookfield Hiker's Guide: Birch Rocks Trail

I'm tempted to keep this  nearly hidden trail to myself. It seems like I'm sharing a secret place that is quietly appreciated by those who know it well. The Birch Rocks Trails lead to the edge of Lake Lillinonah, providing a peaceful lookout to rest, wade in the water or sit on a rock and take in the view.  This spot is more than worthy of being shared, but I understand the inclination to keep it quiet.

My 10-year-old daughter and I set out on a Sunday morning to explore Birch Rocks here in Brookfield. It's located on Obtuse Road North, but you need to know what to look for in order to find this hidden treasure. Keep your eyes open for a tiny parking area, big enough for only two or three cars. The parking area will be on the left and the trail a little further on the right. The entrance to the trail could easily be missed because the sign is close the ground and the entrance is narrow, in between two private residences.

The trail leads down, across a bridge and into the woods.  There's a fork in the path, and you can take the path to the right (straight) or to the left (loop). We chose the straight path, because it just felt like the right thing to do. Eventually we could see the lake through the trees and as we got closer, we found the trail led right down to a tiny beach on the water. So we sat on a rock, feet in the water, taking in the sun and the morning air by the lake.

The trails are easy to follow, very well maintained and immaculately clean. There are moderate inclines. It's an enjoyable hike that older kids could handle easily.  Younger children (at least my own) may find this too strenuous and want a piggy back ride up the final hill back to the parking area.

Perhaps I am wrong and this spot isn't a local secret, but it feels like it, when you wander down the paths in the quiet woods. We walked for a more than an hour and saw only one couple with their dogs, who had just enjoyed a swim in the lake.

I guess that's part of the fun of hiking and exploring. Even though I know so many people have taken in this beauty before me, it still has the feel of being new and perfect as we experience it, and it will continue to wow visitors for as long as people walk this path.