The Wild and Scenic Farmington
Congress established the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System in 1968 to protect certain outstanding rivers from the harmful effects of new federal projects, such as dams, hydroelectric facilities, bank armoring and bridges. To be considered “wild and scenic,” a river (or river segment) must be free-flowing and have at least one outstanding natural, cultural, or recreational feature. As of May, 1999, the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System included 156 river segments covering nearly 11,000 miles. Of all those rivers, only six are located in New England: the Allagash in Maine; the Wildcat and Lamprey in New Hampshire; the Westfield in Massachusetts; the Sudbury, Assabet and Concord Rivers in eastern Massachusetts, and now, the Farmington.
A World Class Fishery
The Farmington River is one of the few rivers in the country where you can catch trout on dry flies twelve months a year. A true tail water stream with water temps maintained in a narrow range by a steady flow of healthy, clean, oxygenated water. This combination maintains healthy insect reproductive cycles that support a very healthy trout population. Come and enjoy a great day of fishing right in our backyard or explore the many additional miles of trophy trout water.
Tubing and Kayaking
Come tubing with us down the scenic Farmington River! Enjoy the excitement of a few gentle rapids and a leisurely float while cooling off on a hot summer day. Tubing is great for families and friends and your trip can be designed to meet anyone’s schedule.
Ski Sundown
Ski Sundown is a ski area located in New Hartford, Connecticut. Only 15 minutes away! There are 15 trails, 14 which are lighted for nighttime skiing. In terms of difficulty, eight of the trails are easier, four are intermediate and three are difficult.
The ski area features two terrain parks, the easier on Tom’s Treat, and an expert terrain park on the black diamond run Stinger. Five lifts service the mountain, with three triple chairs, and two conveyor lifts. Ski Sundown has 65 acres of skiable terrain. Ski Sundown also includes 14 out of 15 trails lighted for night skiing, usually until 10 PM.
Pleasant Valley Drive In
Just steps away – This rural setting hosts a capacity for up to 250 cars and looks like
once upon a time in America. Our old projectors (nicknamed Castor and Pollack) were among the very oldest 35mm film set-ups in operation;
having kept the light on over our PictureShow for more than 60 years .. and,
although that light was sometimes fading over time, they never quit on us! Come see our new Digital Projector which we are pleased was bought with the generosity of our friends and neighbors.
