The Ansonia Nature Center is a great family friendly adventure in all seasons! Right now (as of Nov, 2020), the actual Nature Center is closed due to Covid. However, the grounds are open and still a wonderful place to visit! You'll find a large playground and ball fields right off of the parking lot. There is a covered picnic pavilion just past the ball fields, too.
There are many trails to explore (a map is HERE). Even if you are not up for a big hike, don't miss a little walk around the pond! You'll find the steps down the hill to the pond behind the tire swing on the playground. There is a little boardwalk and you can't get lost just making a little loop around the pond, even without a map. In spring through early fall you can find all sorts of frogs and turtles along the pond edges.
How long is the walk?
We did THIS loop from the All Trails app, which was about 2 miles. It was just right - flat the whole way and took us about an hour at a leisurely pace.
Some notes from my family's experience:
Following the route linked to above, this hike starts at the main parking lot. Head towards the playground and then turn left, walking down the access road that parallels the ball fields. You will walk past the ball fields and picnic pavilion and will see a sign for the entrance to Raptor Woods. Follow the green rectangle/white dot blaze and also keep an eye on the All Trails app, as there are many intersections and the full 2 miles does not stay on the green/white trail. Tip: if you hit the "record" button on All Trails, your location shows up as a moving dot on the trail map so you always know exactly where you are. Especially useful on these trails, as not all intersections are well marked.
This 2 mile loop went through woods, mowed paths through meadows, tunnel-like thickets, and along the pond boardwalk. You'll even pass a vintage rusted out car on the side of the trail! The variation was lovely for such a short hike.
You'll end up back at the playground if you want to spend some time there before leaving.
More Information:
Address: 10 Deerfield Lane, Ansonia, CT
Indoor bathrooms not available as the building is currently closed. There is a portapotty outside the building.
Note: The Ansonia Gun Club borders the Nature Center property, and it is not uncommon to hear the sounds of target practice coming from the Club.
