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The Walt Landgraf Trail

The leaves are finally beginning to turn, cool fall weather is ideal for hiking, and the scenic reward of an early autumn hike is something particularly fantastic. The Walt Landgraf Trail in Barkhamsted provides an enjoyable hike that can be accomplished in under an hour.

The red-blazed Walt Landgraf Trail branches off from the longer blue-red-blazed Elliott Bronson Trail in Peoples State Forest. Those who would prefer a shorter hike may park near the Elliott Bronson Trail entrance located off Route 181. Look for Park Road and you will see roadside parking for a few cars and the trail marker just a short distance up the road.

The Walt Landgraf Trail is well known as the trail leading to People State Forest’s soapstone quarry, where  Native American artifacts were discovered and are now on display at the Stone Museum in Peoples State Forest and the Peabody Museum. This time of year, when the leaves are just beginning to show some color, the hemlock and oak forest the trail winds through overshadows any glory the quarry may offer.

Once you begin your hike, ascend the needle-carpeted trail through hardwoods and away from the noise of traffic from nearby roads. Sunlight will quickly become scarce under the thick forest canopy. Be certain to tackle this hike soon, while many of the trees still refuse to turn color and flaunt their rich greens alongside the golden splendor of autumn.

Descend gently until you sight the sign post indicating where the Walt Landgraf Trail branches from the Elliott Bronson Trail. Head left following the red blazes and cross a seasonal spring. The forest begins to close in around you as you ascend steeply up rocky outcroppings before reaching the trail end and the quarry.

A long, shallow cave is visible in the cliff face, where Native Americans quarried soapstone to be crafted into tools, utensils and ornaments. Dedicate some time to exploring the quarry and surrounding area, which includes the mixed foliage of fall.

The entire hike can be accomplished rapidly if you use the Park Road/Route 181 entrance. The red blazes can be difficult to spot in poor or dim lighting, but the trail is well-traveled and easy to follow. Though there are indeed grander local hiking spots to traverse in early fall, the Walt Landgraf Trail is a subtle beauty that you can explore in just part of a day.

Lakeville Journal

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