Town of Newfield, Enfield
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Connecticut Hill State Forest is very large and well-consoldated State Forest. Here is the use policy sign at its entrance. Alot wildlife and diverse uses.
Connecticut Hill is the highest point in Tompkins County (2097') and has views of surrounding pre-glacial hilltops. The forests are ~60 years old with some plantation plantings. Many old foundations, apple trees, lilac, etc. indicate once active community. Monument at top of hill by road describes how the land was once owned by the State of Connecticut and other history. An interesting Historical Marker at the corner of Connecticut Hill Rd. and Tower Rd. An interesting and diverse cemetary is at the corner of Boyland and Connecticut Hill Rd. (~1840-1900's) attests to a once thriving community in last century.
Connecticut Hill, at 2097.2', is the highest point in the county. The
hogback profile and radio towers can be seen from most hilltops around
the county. The hilltops are quite exposed to weather; generally
several degrees cooler than surrounding area.
Trail is in good shape, though some amount of trail bike action.
On the west, from Cayuta Lake, the trail goes up Van Lone Hill using abandoned roads, crossing the hilltop and a a creek valley. From there it joins the dirt roads of the State Forest.
Crossing the creek on Swan Hill Road, the trail follows the creek through an interesting hemlock hillside and then crosses Swan Hill Rd.
The trail crosses to Connecticut Hill Road through a block of woods (old military tract?) and joins an old road with several homestead foundations. Several wildlife management clearing can be seen.
Cabin Rd. to Boyland is an easy walk along ridgeline. Boyland to top
of Connecticut Hill more challenging. Beaver works on trail between
Boyland Road and Connecticut Hill Rd. A good example of a "stump"
fence lines the property line up to Connecticut Hill.
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