Amy’s Park Orange Trail

Amy’s Park Orange Trail is a one-mile out-and-back with a loop at the far end, circling rocky, lichen-covered ledges above the northern beaver pond. It is a short outing for a wetland view rather than a long hike; allow about 45 to 60 minutes on the Orange route. The official mile covers the Orange Trail from its Yellow Trail access, including the loop. The approach from the Padanarum parking lots adds walking.

From the main Padanarum Road lot, follow the marked Yellow Trail to the Orange access. The Orange route climbs gently to the pond-side ledges, circles the end loop, then returns along its short shared approach to the junction. The preserve map also shows access from the Blue Trail, but that connector is outside the one-mile Orange route. Include the lichen-covered rock in the foreground when framing the pond; it shows both the footing and the wetland payoff.

The preserve rates Orange easy to moderate and notes a short steep section in the loop. Early-spring mud can make the tread slick, and beaver activity can affect access in places. Expect a mostly modest walk with one brief climb, not a flat boardwalk stroll. The route has no trail-specific published time or elevation-gain figure; the time here is a practical estimate for the mapped mile and a stop at the pond.

Orange overlooks the upper beaver pond, with rocky ledges and educational signs along the route. Amy’s Park protects the headwaters of Indian Brook and a mix of forest and wetland habitat. The 500-acre preserve is named in memory of Amy Wolgin Wiener; its hiking trails opened to the public in 2012.

The preserve is open from dawn to dusk year-round. Use the designated Padanarum Road lots, then follow Yellow to the Orange access; only the main lot is plowed in winter. Dogs must stay leashed. Hunting is allowed by permit only, so wear bright colors and hike in a group during hunting seasons.