NW CT Alphabet Hikes: D - Dean's Ravine, Falls Village, CT

Monday, June 20, 2016

D - Dean's Ravine (Falls), Canaan (Falls Village), CT

Since I got such an early start on Caleb's Peak this morning, and got the "work" stop at my school done with quickly as well, I decided that there would be time for my next short hike, before some yard work at home.

That short hike was to Dean's Ravine near Falls Village, which is actually in the town of Canaan.

The trail is in a spot you wouldn't expect. On US 7 North, just across from Housatonic Valley Regional High School, take a turn down Lime Rock Station Road, where it seems likely it was named for a former railroad station. There are railroad tracks that you have to cross to get down to Music Mountain Road. Head uphill for a mile, and there's a dirt pull-off parking area on your left.

A blue-blazed trail heads down immediately, and one can hear the rushing water of Reed Brook.

The trail descends gradually, then switches back, and you head directly toward the falls.

Dean's Ravine Falls

It hadn't rained in a while, so the water wasn't gushing, but it was still impressive and soothing!

Dean's Ravine Falls

After the waterfall, the trail continues along the brook to a nice camping area with a bench and fire pit, then continues back out to Music Mountain Rd. It's a pleasant enough hike, but the waterfall is definitely the highlight!

Camping area. A bit buggy to stay too long!

Rather than take the familiar way home, I decided to get "adventurous," and drive on something called "River Road" back towards West Cornwall. The road went quickly unpaved, but did follow the Housatonic River, as well as leap-frogging the railroad tracks. There were quite a few houses along this road as well. A nice, scenic surprise!