Hewitt Pond, Fairfield, Connecticut

Tucked away in the charming town of North Stonington, Connecticut, Hewitt Pond (also known as Gallup Pond) offers visitors a peaceful retreat from everyday life. This serene 3-acre body of water is part of the larger 104-acre Hewitt Farm park and recreation area, which was purchased by the town in 2008 for public enjoyment. You’ll find yourself mesmerized by the natural beauty surrounding the pond, from hemlock trees to shagbark hickory and vibrant red maples that showcase New England’s traditional landscape.

When you visit Hewitt Pond, you’ll experience the perfect blend of natural wonder and historical charm. The area features lovely hiking trails along the eastern banks of the pond, beautiful stonewalls, forests, and waterways that transport you to a simpler time. This hidden gem in New London County provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature while exploring one of Connecticut’s most picturesque settings.

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Hewitt Pond

Hewitt Pond is a serene natural lake nestled in North Stonington, Connecticut. You’ll find this peaceful body of water perfect for a quiet day of reflection and outdoor enjoyment. The pond offers visitors a chance to escape the busy pace of everyday life.

The calm waters of Hewitt Pond make it ideal for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Many locals come here to catch various freshwater fish species. You might spot wildlife around the shoreline if you visit during early morning or evening hours.

Connecticut has many beautiful lakes and ponds, but Hewitt Pond stands out for its unspoiled natural setting. The surrounding area features typical New England landscape with trees that create stunning reflections on the water. You should definitely bring your camera to capture the scenic views.

The changing seasons transform Hewitt Pond into different but equally beautiful versions of itself. Spring brings new growth, summer offers pleasant temperatures for water activities, fall creates a colorful backdrop of foliage, and winter sometimes freezes portions of the pond for a magical wintry scene.

Location: North Stonington, CT 06359

The History of Hewitt Pond

Hewitt Pond’s story intertwines with Connecticut’s agricultural past and conservation movements. The beautiful waters and surrounding land have changed hands over generations while maintaining their natural charm.

Early Beginnings

The history of Hewitt Pond connects to the Hewitt family‘s significant presence in North Stonington, Connecticut. In the early 1900s, a Yale-educated businessman named George Hewitt Myers began acquiring forestland in the region. He eventually gathered about 8,000 acres in Union, Connecticut.

The pond area was part of traditional New England farmland, characterized by fields, stonewalls, forests, and waterways. You can easily imagine how early settlers valued this water source for farming and daily life.

The Hewitt family has deep roots in the area, with Captain Thomas Hewitt of Stonington being one of the notable ancestors. Richard Hewitt, born around 1774 in Stonington, was part of this lineage that helped shape the region’s history.

Conservation Efforts

The protection of Hewitt Pond took a major step forward in 2008 when the Town of North Stonington purchased the 104-acre park and recreation area. This purchase ensured that both residents and visitors could enjoy this natural treasure for generations to come.

The town’s vision for Hewitt Farm (including the pond) focuses on maintaining, protecting, and preserving it as a place of traditional New England beauty. This includes careful stewardship of the fields, stonewalls, forests, pond, and waterways that make up this 109-acre property.

Today, you can visit this preserved landscape near the Rhode Island border and step back in time. The conservation efforts have succeeded in creating a space where you can experience the natural world’s beauty and imagine a simpler life from years past.

Wildlife at Hewitt Pond

Hewitt Pond hosts a diverse ecosystem with wildlife that changes throughout the seasons. Visitors can enjoy spotting various bird species and observing the rich aquatic life that thrives in this Connecticut gem.

Bird Species

You’ll be delighted by the variety of birds that call Hewitt Pond home. During your visit, keep an eye out for long-billed curlews with their distinctive curved beaks. These graceful shorebirds can often be seen probing the muddy edges for food.

Sprague’s pipit, though less common, might reward patient birdwatchers with a sighting. These small, unassuming birds have a beautiful ascending flight song that’s worth waiting for.

Numerous waterfowl species populate the pond throughout the year. In spring and fall, you’ll see migratory ducks, geese, and occasional herons stalking the shallows for fish. Bring binoculars to enhance your wildlife watching experience!

Aquatic Life

The pond’s clear waters support a thriving ecosystem perfect for fishing enthusiasts. Trout are regularly stocked in Hewitt Fly Pond and the connecting Shunnock Brook, making it a favorite spot for anglers.

You can easily spend hours watching native fish species darting beneath the surface. The pond’s healthy population creates excellent opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers.

Canoeing and kayaking provide unique perspectives for observing the underwater inhabitants. From your boat, you might spot turtles sunning themselves on logs or frogs perched on lily pads.

The accessible waterways make Hewitt Pond ideal for both wildlife observation and recreational fishing. Remember to check local fishing regulations before casting your line!

Recreational Activities

Hewitt Pond offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year. The natural setting provides perfect opportunities for both relaxation and adventure amid Connecticut’s beautiful landscape.

Fishing Tips

You’ll find excellent fishing opportunities at Hewitt Pond. The pond is accessible year-round and offers a peaceful setting for anglers of all experience levels.

When fishing here, remember that either a Connecticut or Massachusetts fishing license is valid for the entire pond. Massachusetts regulations apply, which include a daily trout limit of three fish.

Lower Hewitt Pond is particularly popular among local fishers. The dam area provides good access points and is where “That Dam Trail” begins, offering scenic views while you cast your line.

For the best experience, try visiting during early morning or late afternoon when fish are most active. Spring and fall typically offer the most productive fishing conditions.

Nature Walks

You’ll love exploring the extensive trail network around Hewitt Farm and the pond. The property features more than a mile of well-maintained hiking trails winding through diverse landscapes.

The Loop Trail takes you along the edges of several fields, providing open views and easy walking conditions. This is perfect if you’re looking for a leisurely stroll with minimal elevation changes.

“That Dam Trail” follows the water’s edge near Lower Hewitt Pond Dam, offering beautiful waterside views. As you walk, watch for local wildlife that frequents the shoreline.

The trails traverse forests, fields, wetlands, and streams, giving you a complete experience of Connecticut’s natural beauty. The Bicentennial Trail is also accessible from the property.

Besides hiking, the designated trails accommodate horseback riding, bicycle riding, and even animal-drawn vehicles, making it a versatile destination for different outdoor enthusiasts.