Macricostas Expansion Plan
Pinnacle Cliffs Acquistion
Through key grants, the generosity of your contributions, and the bold vision and leadership of Trustee John Santoleri and Director of Conservation Rory Larson, Steep Rock recently completed the acquisition of "Pinnacle Cliffs," an important 30-acre tract nestled between Macricostas Preserve and the Town of Warren.
The value of this land is more than scenic—it's part of our Macricostas Expansion Plan and serves as an ecological sanctuary safeguarding core forests, wetlands, and the myriad species they support, while securing wildlife corridors crucial for natural migrations. The parcel also protects the headwaters of streams that feed both Lake Waramaug and Meeker Swamp, bolstering our shared commitment to natural climate solutions and watershed protection. Pinnacle Cliffs will also expand the beloved trail system at Macricostas Preserve, where hikers can marvel at ancient geological cliffs and glacial formations. Every acre protected is a testament to the power of your partnership. If you'd like to help build out these new trails, click the donation button below.
Wonders
The property includes many glacial erratic formations, including a 65-foot high cliff with a copse of pine trees at the top.
Views
Located near our newly created Boulders Trail, a trail into Pinnacle Cliffs will offer hikers spectacular views of rock cliffs, headwater streams, and undisturbed wetlands rarely seen in northwest CT.
Water
The parcel drains into Lake Waramaug to the west and the Meeker Swamp/Shepaug River to the east, thus protecting two important watershed areas. The property also includes five acres of undisturbed wetlands and 0.5 miles of streams.
Forests
Pinnacle Cliffs is located within a 1,056-acre core forest block of which greater than 50% has been protected. The property’s mature forest and extensive mountain laurel sequester tons of carbon dioxide, provide soil stability through more extreme weather events, maintain water quality in freshwater streams, and filter pollutants.
Wildlife
Preservation of the Pinnacle Cliffs protects a surprisingly rich assemblage of unique natural communities that converge within a relatively small area and provide important wildlife linkages to surrounding core forests. Steep Rock surveys have revealed several species of great concern, including more than 25 bird species, 4 bat species, salamanders, turtles, wood frogs, butterflies, and several rare plant species.
Photos: A glimpse of some of the unique ecological and geological features in the parcel, including the 65-foot cliff, glacial erratic boulders, a stream channel, and ridgetop view.
