Rec Path/SIS Loop

The SIS Connector is shown in blue
(click image to enlarge)

The SIS Connector Trail is possibly the most overlooked trail we have, if you consider that it can be used to created a one mile Rec Path loop that circles around the Intermediate School and features views of Silent Waters. The loop is 0.7 mile Rec Path (crushed stone), 0.1 mile school path (paved), and 0.2 mile SIS Connector (natural surface). 

The north end of the trail begins
behind SIS near a gate and a ballfield

The north end of the trail follows the top of a berm

The Connector Trail was recently freshened up with new blazes and routered signs were added at each end because apparently no one knew this trail existed. It was created in 2014 and has been shown on our trail map for a decade, but many people (sadly) tend not to look at the trail maps.  As a result, it tended to become overgrown. Every trail needs some foot traffic. Otherwise it just looks like some blazed trees in the woods. Speaking of blazes, this one is marked with yellow squares. 

The south end of the trail at Constitution Blvd
kitty-corner from the Dog Park

Here's a verbal description of the one-mile loop counterclockwise:

1. Park on Constitution Blvd North just past the Intermediate School at the hiker lot for the Rec Path and Turkey Trot Trail. 

2. Follow the Rec Path for 0.6 mile, passing the overlook for Silent Waters and continuing as if you were headed for Shelton Ave and the Dog Park. 

3. When you get to the intersection of Shelton Ave and Constitution Blvd, do NOT cross at the crosswalk for Shelton Ave. Cross Constitution Blvd instead. You should see a routered sign on a pine tree that says "SIS CONNECTOR" on it. 

4. Follow the yellow blazes of the Connector Trail for 0.2 mile, which comes to a "T" with a paved school path with ballfield on your right and the school to your left. Turn RIGHT onto the school path, keeping the ballfield to your right and continue for 0.1 mile. 

5. Turn LEFT when you come to the four-way junction, immediate after a bridge over Curtiss Brook. Follow the Rec Path for 0.1 mile to Constitution Blvd and your car. 

There is always the potential for an upgrade to a handicapped-accessible crushed stone surface. That would result in a one-mile handicapped accessible loop. Until then, the surface of the Connector Trail is natural, meaning there are some roots and uneven footing.