Looking for something to do outdoors in October? You’re in luck: a new hiking trail has opened up in town. The Tri-Town Trail, which (once completed) will span from Preston to Groton, held a celebration at Preston Community Park to honor its official opening to the public. The celebration, held on October 3rd from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, featured food trucks, a fun run, entertainment, and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The Tri-Town Trail has been a work in progress for almost a decade. The original plan, developed by the Town of Groton in cooperation with Groton Utilities, was approved and received a state grant in 2001. But the town’s funding was redirected into the school expansion taking place at that time, and the trail was sidelined. It took until 2008 for further action to be taken, and five additional years for the Tri-Town Trail Association to be formed.

The first phase of the trail- the portion that runs through Ledyard- is a 4.1 mile round-trip hike through scenic woods and fields. The trail boasts a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as multiple minor historical sites. Stunning photographs of the trail are available to view on the trail’s official website, www.tritowntrail.com. 

Senior Erin Wilkinson is a staff writer for the 2021-2022 yearbook. When she isn’t drawing or writing, she enjoys listening to music and spending time with her friends.