Lookout Point(Mohawk Trail-Connecticut)

My second stop for the day in the Litchfield Hills of NW Connecticut was a short trail hike to Lookout Point on the Mohawk Trail, a large set of rock ledges easily visible from Route 7 in Canaan.  I got started by parking along the Warren Turnpike(Elevation 575 feet) just north of the Housatonic Valley Regional High School and headed east on the trail. The start was a bit tricky, as I had to cross train tracks and then travel through a wooded area near people's backyards, before emerging at a road crossing of busy Route 7.

Once on the east side of Route 7, the trail climbs quickly and becomes quite rugged.  The ascent is short but relentlessly steep and rocky.

Once on the ridge, the trail mellows out nicely and becomes a gorgeous woods walk.  A carpet of freshly fallen leaves made for perfect hiking.

After a very brief down and then up, I emerged at Lookout Point.  The views south down the Housatonic Valley are very nice.

To the west, the large, bulking mass of Sharon Mountain looms large above Route 7 winding below at its foot.

A fine place to kick back and soak in the views.

From Lookout Point, I retraced my steps back towards the car, including a very steep descent.

A pretty crossing over the outlet of nearby Childs Pond on a sturdy footbridge.

A nice and easy 2 miles round trip with over 600 feet of ascent.  Short, steep but sweet.  

Map below.  Red P=Parking  Blue Line=Route taken