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| Hidden Valley Reservation |
The section northeast of the Depot is known as Hidden Valley, a 650-acre tract characterized by densely wooded hillsides cascading into the meandering river below. This section also includes a rocky high point and small meadows, accessible by hiking trails. Hidden Valley was donated to the Steep Rock Association by the Van Sinderen family in 1963.
Spring & Fall views from Hidden Valley pinnacle.
The level trail lying alongside the eastern bank of the river replaces the defunct railroad bed. It is easy to forget that passenger and freight trains rumbled through the entire length of the reservations from 1872 to 1948. Trails and woods roads remaining from the Van Sinderens’ equestrian and carriage-driving days criss-cross this tract of hardwoods, pine groves, and hemlocks, although many trails are not marked. A footbridge built across the Shepaug River in 1985 makes possible many pleasant loop walks. Care must be taken to avoid the goshawk area north and west of the footbridge in the nesting season. From April through June warning signs are posted and trails are then closed.
Hidden Valley has three blazed trails: Bee Brook Loop (2.2 mi.) Van Sinderen Loop (3.5 mi.) and Pinnacle Trail (.9 mi.) Mountain bikes are restricted; please read the map and heed posted regulations.
Directions to Hidden Valley reservation: From route 47 in Washington Depot, turn between the Washington Supply and Hickory Stick Bookshop to follow route 47 north (also called Bee Brook Road). Follow for 1.2 miles north of Washington Depot, and there are entrances and parking areas on the right, either side of the bridge over the Shepaug River.
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