{Photo of Pine Acres Pond}

Pine Acres Pond in the Goodwin Forest

Trails
The Goodwin State Forest has an extensive trail system for the day hiker, cross country skier, and outdoor enthusiast. Trail maps are available at the information kiosks located near the parking areas at the Goodwin Conservation Center or by clicking the following links:

Goodwin State Forest Trail Map (PDF, color)

Goodiwn State Forest Trail Map (PDF, black and white).

Trails are open from dawn until dusk, 365 days a year.  Trails include the Natchaug Blue Blazed Trail, the Air Line Trail and two additional spur trails.

Pine Acres Pond
Pine Acres Pond was created in 1933 when a dam was built on Cedar Swamp Brook in order to flood the existing swamp. The normal surface of the pond is 568 feet above sea level. The surface area of the pond is approximately 130 acres with a maximum depth of 7 feet. The pond is fed by wetlands and several small intermittent brooks. Drainage from the pond is southward into Cedar Swamp Brook and then into the Little River system. The pond has a watershed of 1,055 acres, almost entirely wooded with land surfaces sloping gently to moderately to the pond.

The James L. Goodwin Forest borders the entire pond except for several acres of privately owned land at the northwest corner of the pond. Public access is provided at a state-owned gravel boat launch. Car top boats are suggested due to shallow launch conditions. There is parking for several cars at the launch.

Regulations for Pine Acres prohibit the use of gasoline motors. Electric motors are permitted. It should be noted that shallow conditions exist throughout the pond.  In the middle and north portions of the pond there are numerous emergent stumps and submerged logs and stumps which can make it difficult to maneuver a boat at times.

Aquatic vegetation includes: Bladderwort (Utricularia purpura), Watershield (Brasena scheberi). Yellow Pond-lily (Nuphar sp.), White Water-lily (Nymphaea odorata), and Pondweed (Potamogeton). Fish Species include: largemouth bass, yellow perch, brown bullhead, and sunfish. 

Pavilion
The Goodwin Conservation Center provides a pavilion for the public, overlooking Pine Acres Pond. The pavilion seats 50 people and is available 365 days a year, from dawn until dusk. It is the perfect spot for a group meeting or a picnic lunch. It is located on the east side of Potter Road at the trailhead for the white, red, and yellow trails. The pavilion is available on a first come, first serve basis only.

Content Last Updated October 2005