Steep Rock Association
Protecting What You Love Since 1925
Steep Rock is a nationally accredited, non-profit land trust serving Washington, CT and the greater Litchfield Hills community.
Land & Water
Protecting 5,800 acres of forest, fields, farms, meadows, and waterways that's home to 33 rare or endangered species.
Food & Community
Helping to feed 200 families in need each week with organic vegetables grown at Judea Garden.
Recreation
Stewarding 46 miles of scenic nature trails through breathtaking landscapes in Washington.
Special Projects
The Macricostas Family has launched a 2:1 match challenge to support the completion of the Isaac Camp House. For every dollar donated towards educational programs and exhibits at the house, the family will contribute two dollars towards the restoration.
Help us cross the finish line on this remarkable 30.46-acre tract that’s part of the Macricostas Preserve Expansion Plan, celebrated for its distinctive landforms, abundant water resources, extensive core forests, and vital habitats for rare species
Thanks to you, Hidden Valley grew by 206 acres in 2023. These lands stretch along scenic rivers and connect to pollinator meadows. Help us create new pathways on this beautiful land. With a trail development budget of $95,000, every contribution helps.
Testimonials
Jeremy Kline
Have hiked hundreds of miles in Connecticut…and the Steep Rock system boasts some of the finest trails that can be found. Best views. Best sites. Best design and maintenance. Bravo to these top-notch locations!”
RJ
Thank you for all that you do to help and enhance the quality of life in our community…We all benefit from every preserve.
Robert
A gorgeous place for a hike. It is pet friendly, has beautifully mapped trails and is built to have little to no impact on the environment
Events & Programs
september 2024
Event Details
Seniors in Steep Rock - Judea Garden & Camp House Tour/History Presentation Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, 11:00AM Macricostas Preserve, 124 Christian St., New Preston Enjoy a tour of Judea Garden and learn
Event Details
Enjoy a tour of Judea Garden and learn about the historic Camp House and the farming and industrial influences of the Camp family in Washington. A complimentary lunch will follow the presentation.
Seniors in Steep Rock is a collaborative program with the Washington Senior Center and is generously supported by a grant from the Connecticut Community Foundation’s “Pathways for Older Adults” program.
Time
(Friday) 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location
Macricostas Preserve
124 Christian Street
Register Here
Register HereEvent Details
Family Mindfulness Hike, Sat., September 15, 2024 at Johnson Farm Join us for this family-friendly easy hike (gentle slopes, mostly flat, beautiful views!) Leaders: Roxanne Kraft and Alan Arellano. This hike
Event Details
Join us for this family-friendly easy hike (gentle slopes, mostly flat, beautiful views!) Leaders: Roxanne Kraft and Alan Arellano. This hike is perfect for children and hikers of all ages and skill levels. Bring the whole family for a fun and relaxing outdoor adventure!
Time
(Sunday) 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Register Here
Register HereEvent Details
Join Executive Director Brian Hagenbuch on a series of casual walks through Steep Rock’s Preserves. Tue., Sept. 17 we will explore Hillside Farm, 397 Nettleton Hollow Road. Acquired in 2021, this
Event Details
Steep Rock Association gratefully acknowledges National Iron Bank as the primary sponsor for this conservation education program.
Time
(Tuesday) 5:30 pm
Location
Hillside Farm
397 Nettleton Hollow Rd.
Register Here
Register HereEvent Details
Join our monthly trail work party! The work party meets at 10:00am the third Saturday of every month from April through November. No experience necessary, just a willingness to get your
Event Details
Time
(Saturday) 10:00 am - 12:30 pm
Register Here
Register HereEvent Details
Fall Equinox Firepit Event Sun., September 22, 2024, 5:00PM Steep Rock House, 116 Christian St, New Preston There are only 2 times of the year when the Earth's axis is tilted neither
Event Details
There are only 2 times of the year when the Earth's axis is tilted neither toward nor away from the sun, resulting in a nearly equal amount of daylight and darkness at all latitudes - and this is one of those days! We'll celebrate the season with a walk around the Macricostas Hayfield at 5pm followed by the firepit at 5:30pm. And this year, Pizzeria Marzano food truck will be on hand with treats for the entire family. Come join us for at the firepit as we celebrate the arrival of fall with refreshments, fun, and good company - all are welcome.
Time
(Sunday) 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Location
Steep Rock House
116 Christian St.
Register Here
Register HereEvent Details
Tunnel Road Connector Hike Sat., September 28, 2024, 11:00AM – 2:00PM Steep Rock Preserve, 2 Tunnel Road, Washington Depot Join Steep Rock Association and Roxbury Land Trust for a 4.5-mile intertown hike
Event Details
Time
(Saturday) 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Location
Steep Rock Preserve
2 Tunnel Rd
Register Here
Register HereEvent Details
3 Peaks in 3 Weeks: Sun., Sept. 29 through Sun., Oct. 20, 2024 An annual event each October, this challenge invites participants to hike all three Steep Rock peaks (
Event Details
3 Peaks in 3 Weeks: Sun., Sept. 29 through Sun., Oct. 20, 2024
An annual event each October, this challenge invites participants to hike all three Steep Rock peaks (Steep Rock Preserve, Macricostas Preserve, and Hidden Valley Preserve) in three weeks and register to win prizes for participating. All ages and fitness levels are encouraged to join in this friendly adventure.
Registration coming soon!
Time
September 29 (Sunday) 7:00 am - October 20 (Sunday) 6:00 pm