Most of Steep Rock’s lands lie along the glacially carved, rock-strewn Shepaug River. Except for brief interruptions in Washington Depot and for a stretch of Rt. 47, the preserves extend almost the full length of the township and include three main sections:
Steep Rock Reservation, 974 acres just southwest of Washington Depot
Hidden Valley Reservation, 650 acres just northeast of the Depot
Macricostas Preserve, (Meeker Swamp) 370 acres north of the junction of routes 47 and 202
The preserves are an extraordinary natural resource valued for their unspoiled beauty, seclusion, wildlife habitat, recreational and educational opportunities. There are miles of trails in Steep Rock, Hidden Valley and Macricostas Preserve that are enjoyed by hikers, equestrians, and cross country skiers.
Directions to Hidden Valley, Macricostas and Steep Rock Preserves
Maps of Steep Rock, Hidden Valley and Macricostas Preserve are now available! These full-color, GPS-accurate maps can be purchased at the Hickory Stick Bookshop or the Gunn Memorial Library, all three for $8. Or we will mail them to you, if you send $8 to:
Steep Rock Association, Inc.
P.O. Box 279
Washington Depot, CT 06794