Baldwin Lake Wildlife Management Area

The Pennington Loop Trail offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, winding through mature hardwood forests and along the scenic southern shore of Baldwin Lake. You'll experience varied terrain, from crushed gravel paths to accessible boardwalks, and might even spot Canada geese or swans on the water. It's a journey through diverse ecosystems, perfect for a relaxing outing.

Planning your visit is simple, with easy access from Kunkle Park, which provides amenities like a picnic area and children's play equipment. The trail is dog-friendly, requiring leashes, and while mostly flat, be aware that sections along the Stony Brook floodplain can be wet and muddy after rain. This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike, with only 76 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.

This trail is part of a larger preserved open space, traversing properties that contribute to the Stony Brook Greenway project. It's a valuable habitat for wildlife, including Great Blue Herons and Wood Ducks, and features large trees and vernal pools important for amphibian life. The trail also connects to other natural areas like the Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Preserve, offering further exploration opportunities.