Fall foliage at the Herb Hadfield Conservation Area Cornell Road trailhead
October is one of our favorite months of the year at WLCT. The natural world is preparing for a long winter’s nap and in doing so, creates a bountiful harvest and beautiful scenery. You don’t have to go far to enjoy a day of nature’s splendor; you can have it all right here in Westport!
Start your day with one of the many tremendous breakfast restaurants, cafes and bakeries across Westport that often source their ingredients from local farms. Then, take a trip to one of the following WLCT destinations to enjoy everything nature has to offer:
Herb Hadfield Conservation Area
Angeline Brook is often quiet before the November rains, but the leaves falling into the brook and travelling downstream is a magical experience. The winding 2.5-mile trail through the forest, meadow, and wetlands is filled with color and texture. The property can often be wet in the fall, so be prepared to get your feet muddy!
Herb Hadfield Conservation Area is a must for fall foliage hikers
Westport Woods Conservation Park
The tall warm season grasses in the meadow are turning a variety of natural hues and create a symphony of sound as they sway in the breeze and insects and birds flitter about. The trail is well worn and reveals more of the forest as the leaves fall to the floor. It is also a great time of year to experience the three Artist in Residence installations on display across the meadow.
Indian grass at Westport Woods Conservation Park
The fruit trees are showing off color before dropping their leaves, and the upper east branch of the Westport River is spectacular in October as it winds its way down towards the Head of Westport. With the leaves turning and falling, the sounds of the river can be easier to hear and experience.
Cider apples at the Mill Pond Conservation Area micro-orchard from years past
After you have had enough immersion in nature, take the time to visit a local farm that sells the fall harvest. Orr’s Farmstand has pumpkins, Noquochoke Orchards has apples, and Westport Rivers Winery has many beverages to enjoy- all farms that are forever preserved by WLCT and our partners! These are just a sampling of the many farms and farmstands in town.
So, when you think about experiencing this season’s bounty, think local, think Westport!