December 2025 Newsletter

Photo: Eastern bluebird by Haig Leonard

100 Years of Gratitude

As our Centennial year comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the vision of our founders and whether they could have anticipated the impact their bold idea in land conservation would have for the forested hills, pastoral landscapes, and scenic rivers that define our community’s quality of life. I am also truly humbled by the hundreds of people who shared stories over the past year of what our preserves and our work have meant to them. Older adults waxing nostalgic with daring stories from their youth together with today’s grade schoolers planting seeds for Judea Garden and hunting for creatures under river rocks, experiences they will carry with them across generations. The inspiration that powers Steep Rock’s efforts is derived from you, our donors, volunteers, supporters, and sponsors, who fuel our conservation mission. Your generosity and belief in what we can achieve together has had a truly transformational impact for our community and our connection to the natural world. On behalf of all of us at Steep Rock, our success is yours. Thank you for being an essential part of our team. We wish you a happy and healthy holiday season and a year of abundance in 2026.

See you on the trails,
Brian Hagenbuch, Ph.D.
Executive Director

Eagle Scouts Strengthen Macricostas Trails

Scout Troop 65 has once again left a lasting mark on our preserves. Last month, Eagle Scout candidate, James Dowling-Ukers, directed and worked with his fellow Scouts in the replacement of bog bridging in Macricostas Preserve. He worked closely with Trail Manager Merlin Ennis, to apply for permits, plan workdays, and rebuild the bog bridging that ensures safe, sustainable access to all of the trails in Macricostas. We’re grateful for James’s leadership, hard work, and commitment to community stewardship.

Winter Hiking is Here

Winter is a beautiful time to explore our preserves, but conditions can change quickly and it’s important to be prepared. Dress in warm, layered clothing, pack extra gloves, hats, and dry layers, and bring water and high-energy snacks to fuel your trip. Consider carrying hiking poles and microspikes as sections of trail can be icy, especially along the Shepaug River and streams. If there is significant snow on the ground, bring your cross-country skis or snowshoes to make traversing trails easier. Grab a trail map at a kiosk (they are free!), know your destination, and let someone know where you will be enjoying the day. With a little preparation, winter hikes can be both safe and unforgettable.

Celebrate Winter at our Firepit December 18

Celebrate the season with us at the Steep Rock firepit on December 18! Enjoy warm and chilled beverages, festive treats, and great company as we gather outdoors. Add your hopes for 2026 to our intentions board, and take a quiet moment to bid farewell to anything from 2025 you’re ready to leave behind. Registration and info: Event Calendar

Tunnel Road Closed for the Season

Heads up, hikers – Tunnel Road in Steep Rock Preserve is now in “winter mode”. The gate is closed to cars until mid-April 2026, but as always, you can access on foot, snowshoe, or cross country skis depending on conditions.

Education Center & Museum Now Open!

Our Education Center & Museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM throughout December. Stop by to explore the newly renovated red Camp House – the second-oldest home in Washington – at the entrance to Macricostas Preserve (124 Christian Street, New Preston) and learn more about Steep Rock’s rich history. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer host > Sign Up Now