Cathedral Pines, Litchfield Hills Travel Guide

4.6 (16)

Hike through the serene Cathedral Pines Preserve in West Cornwall, CT, and witness the beauty of an old-growth forest in recovery.

Cathedral Pines is a 42-acre nature preserve in Cornwall, Connecticut, showcasing the remnants of an old-growth white pine and hemlock forest. Once a popular tourist attraction in the late 1800s, it offers a serene hiking experience amidst towering trees and a glimpse into the region's natural history.

A brief summary to Cathedral Pines

West Cornwall, West Cornwall, Connecticut, 06796, US
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cathedral Pines.

Wear sturdy shoes for the hiking trail, as the terrain can be uneven in some areas.
Bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months, to protect against mosquitoes and ticks.
Stay on the marked trails to avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem and ongoing restoration efforts.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Weir Farm National Historical Park

Audubon Center Bent of the River

Sharon Audubon Center

East Rock Park

Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center (formerly Knights of Columbus Museum)

Explore Cathedral Pines on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cathedral Pines, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Cathedral Pines Preserve is located on Essex Hill Road in Cornwall, CT. From Route 4, turn onto Route 125 in Cornwall. Then, turn left onto Valley Road, followed by a left onto Essex Hill Road. The parking area is a short distance down Essex Hill Road on the left, marked by a large boulder. Parking is free.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Cathedral Pines, you can take the Metro-North Railroad Harlem Line to Wassaic Station. From Wassaic, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available to West Cornwall. Taxi fare from Wassaic to West Cornwall is approximately $40. From West Cornwall to the preserve, it is best to take a taxi or rideshare. Confirm availability and pricing beforehand.

Discover more about Cathedral Pines

Cathedral Pines Preserve, located in West Cornwall, CT, is a testament to the enduring beauty and resilience of nature. This 42-acre preserve, now managed by the Cornwall Conservation Trust, was once part of the largest stand of old-growth white pine and hemlock trees in New England. The Calhoun family, recognizing the forest's value, purchased the land in 1883 to prevent logging and later donated it to The Nature Conservancy in 1967.For decades, Cathedral Pines stood as a majestic example of an old-growth forest, attracting visitors who marveled at the towering trees. In 1982, it was designated a National Natural Landmark. However, in July 1989, a devastating tornado swept through the area, significantly altering the landscape. While the tornado caused widespread damage, it also created an opportunity for ecological restoration and study. Today, visitors can explore the preserve's marked trail, witnessing the forest's regeneration and the interplay of light and shadow among the remaining pines and hemlocks.The preserve offers a tranquil escape into nature, where you can observe woodpeckers and other wildlife amidst the fallen trees. The remaining white pines, some reaching heights of 120 to 140 feet, still evoke a sense of awe. Cathedral Pines serves as a reminder of the forces that shape our natural world and the importance of preserving these precious ecosystems.