Saturday, January 28, 1 p.m
Come explore the Case Brothers historic district and take a 3-mile hike to the summit of Case Mountain in the Highland Park section of Manchester. We will see a waterfall, stone walls, carriage path, and Case mansions, as well as forest and ponds. Wear sturdy shoes or sneakers and expect some wet spots, very steep climbs, and bumpy terrain. The hike and commentary will take about two hours. Participants in this moderately paced (but strenuous) hike will learn basic hiking skills and, depending on the weather, view the Hartford skyline from the summit of Case Mountain. We will view property owned by the Town of Manchester and by the Manchester Land Conservation Trust. Led by Susan Barlow and Dick Whitehouse. Hike starts at the Spring Street trailhead: From Hartford, take I-84 eastbound to I-384, exit 4, right off exit ramp. Follow Spring Street down a curve and then down a steep hill, over a one-lane bridge. Parking along one side of Spring Street, with a little parking at the trail head. No dogs, please. Extreme weather cancels. If you are not athletic, you can come for the history portion of the event, and skip the three-mile hike!

Cheney Railroad History Walk
Saturday, February 25, 1 p.m
Hikers will have an easy, but bumpy, walk along the former railroad, built in 1869 to connect the Cheney silk mills to the main rail line in the North End. At 2.5 miles, it was the shortest private freight-and-passenger railroad in the United States. We will hike along the one-mile portion owned by the Manchester Land Conservation Trust and, depending on the weather, on to Center Springs Park, which will take about 1-3/4 hours round trip. Participants will hear about the history of the railroad and see maps and old pictures. Phone hike leader Susan Barlow (860-643-9776) if questions. There are no restrooms along the route. Meet at the North End of Main Street in Manchester, on the north (right) side of Farr's Sporting Goods, 2 Main Street, Manchester, CT 06042. Park at the nearby shopping plaza or Eighth Utilities District office building (please do not park in Farr's parking lot). A special favor will be given to children who attend the hike, sponsored by the Connecticut Forest & Park Association's family hike program, but open to all, including singles. Extreme weather cancels. No dogs, please.