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 reservations extend almost the full length of the township and include three main sections:
Steep Rock, 750 acres just southwest of Washington Depot
Hidden Valley, 650 acres just northeast of the Depot
Macricostas Preserve, (Meeker Swamp) 360 acres north of the junction of routes 47 and 202
The reservations 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. For directions to each of the reservations, click on the links above.
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/ P.O. Box 279, Washington Depot, CT 06794.