If you are a hiking enthusiast, you might want to add Pond Mountain Natural Area to your bucket list. This 800-acre preserve, located in Kent, Connecticut, is a hidden gem that offers a variety of trails for different skill levels and interests. You can hike to the top of Pond Mountain, where you can see the Catskill Mountains on a clear day, or explore the tranquil Fuller Pond, where you can spot wildlife and wildflowers. In this post, we will share some highlights of our hiking adventure at Pond Mountain and some tips for making the most of your visit.

How to get there

Pond Mountain Natural Area is situated on Skiff Mountain Road, about a 10-minute drive from the town of Kent. There is a spacious parking lot at the entrance, with a kiosk that has maps and information about the trails. You can also download the map from the [Pond Mountain Trust website].

What to bring

Depending on the season and the trail you choose, you might need different equipment and clothing for your hike. Here are some general suggestions:

• Water and snacks: There are no water sources or facilities at Pond Mountain, so make sure you bring enough water and snacks for your hike. There are some picnic tables near the parking lot where you can have a break before or after your hike.
• Hiking shoes and poles: The trails at Pond Mountain are well-maintained, but some sections can be steep, rocky, or muddy. It is advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring hiking poles if you have them. They will help you with your balance and stability on uneven terrain.
• Layers and rain gear: The weather at Pond Mountain can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. It is wise to dress in layers and bring a rain jacket or poncho in case of showers. You might also want to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Camera and binoculars: Pond Mountain offers some stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife and wildflowers. You might want to bring a camera and binoculars to capture and enjoy these sights.

Which trail to choose

There are six trails at Pond Mountain Natural Area, ranging from easy to hard in difficulty and from 1.5 to 8.9 miles in length. Here are some brief descriptions of the trails:

• Fuller Pond Loop: This is an easy 1.8-mile loop trail that circles around Fuller Pond, a small lake that reflects the sky and trees. This trail is great for families with kids or anyone looking for a relaxing walk in nature. You can see ducks, frogs, turtles, and fish in the pond, as well as birds and squirrels in the trees.
• Caleb Peak via Appalachian Trail at Skiff Mountain Road: This is an easy 1.5-mile out-and-back trail that leads to Caleb Peak, a rocky overlook that offers panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains and the Housatonic River Valley. This trail is ideal for anyone who wants a short but rewarding hike with a spectacular view.
• Pond Mountain and Fuller Pond Loop: This is a moderate 3-mile loop trail that combines the Mountain Trail and the Escarpment Trail. This trail takes you up to Pond Mountain, the highest point in the natural area at 1,320 feet above sea level. From there, you can enjoy the views of Fuller Pond and the surrounding hills. Then, you descend along the Escarpment Trail, which follows the edge of a steep cliff that drops into Fuller Pond. This trail is perfect for anyone who wants a moderate hike with some elevation gain and varied scenery.
• Caleb’s Peak via Fuller Pond Loop: This is a moderate 4.4-mile loop trail that combines the Appalachian Trail and the Escarpment Trail. This trail takes you up to Caleb Peak via the Appalachian Trail, where you can admire the views of the Catskill Mountains and the Housatonic River Valley. Then, you descend along the Escarpment Trail, which follows the edge of a steep cliff that drops into Fuller Pond.
• Escarpment Trail: This is a hard 8.9-mile loop trail that follows the entire length of the Escarpment Trail, which runs along the edge of a steep cliff that drops into Fuller Pond. This trail offers some of the most dramatic views of the natural area, as well as some challenging terrain. You will encounter steep ascents and descents, rocky sections, and narrow ledges. This trail is recommended for experienced hikers who are looking for a long and adventurous hike.
• Mountain Trail: This is a hard 7.4-mile loop trail that follows the entire length of the Mountain Trail, which climbs up to Pond Mountain and then descends to Fuller Pond. This trail offers some of the most scenic views of the natural area, as well as some strenuous terrain. You will encounter steep climbs and drops, switchbacks, and rocky sections. This trail is recommended for experienced hikers who are looking for a long and rewarding hike.

Conclusion

Pond Mountain Natural Area is a hidden gem in Connecticut that offers a variety of trails for different skill levels and interests. You can hike to the top of Pond Mountain, where you can see the Catskill Mountains on a clear day, or explore the tranquil Fuller Pond, where you can spot wildlife and wildflowers. You can also enjoy some stunning views of Fuller Pond and Pond Mountain from different angles and perspectives along the Escarpment Trail.

If you are looking for a scenic and peaceful hike in Connecticut, you might want to check out Pond Mountain Natural Area in Kent. You will not regret it!