Glastonbury's Cotton Hollow Preserve Opens With Enhanced Infrastructure, Patrols

GLASTONBURY, CT — Cotton Hollow Preserve has officially opened for the season.

The Preserve boasts 80 acres of pristine woodlands traversed by the Roaring Brook. For generations, citizens have visited this beautiful site to enjoy passive recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and viewing the majestic walls of the former mills.

In anticipation of opening day, the town of Glastonbury has invested in expanded infrastructure and staffing at Cotton Hollow to protect the preserve’s natural state and to prevent unpermitted activities such as substance misuse, lighting of campfires, and cliff jumping.

The town has installed new gates and surveillance cameras at Cotton Hollow.

Additionally, updated signs have been installed at the site entrances to reinforce unpermitted behaviors and to remind visitors of the importance of respecting this natural preserve.

Furthermore, this season will have an increased presence of on-site Police and Park Ranger staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all. When the Preserve cannot be staffed, the gates will be closed and locked. In those instances, Cotton Hollow will remain open for citizens entering on foot or bicycle only.

"As we embark on the 2025 season, the town welcomes residents and non-residents of all ages to visit this timeless community attraction to go for a walk or hike, fish, swim (at your own risk), or admire the natural beauty of the Preserve. Cotton Hollow is open from sunrise through one hour before sunset during the spring and summer months. Please observe the site regulations posted on the property signs and respect this treasured location so that the Preserve can remain open for all to enjoy this season," town officials said.