McLean Game Refuge Natural Areas (National Natural Landmark, CT)

November 7 and 9, 2023

Spent two days exploring the trails of McLean Game Refuge, a wildlife refuge of which 1700 acres are designated a National Natural Landmark due to their biological and geological resources. Hundreds of plant and animal species are protected within the refuge, with most of the area “left as a wilderness where our native plants and animals can exist with little to no human intervention” (McLeancare.org).

For the most part, I walked through woods on some lovely leaf-covered trails. Went past a couple ponds, and climbed up Eastern Barndoor Hill to appreciate the view. The trails just west and east of Firetown Road feel like they get slightly less use, though they were still easy to follow. Below is a collection of photos from different parts of the refuge.