THE RIVER BOULEVARD LOOP

This is a walk that many of our residents take because of the great views along the way of the Connecticut River and the view constantly changes with the seasons. The walk is a little over 2 miles but be careful because it’s all on the roadway. Remember to walk facing traffic and wear some reflective items, particularly in the evening.

Along the way, you will pass the tombstone of Richard Austin who died of smallpox on 4 January 1761. Austin was a farmer, part-time carpenter, and the uncle and great-uncle of the most prominent Austin family members, Moses and his son Stephen. They were leading figures in the settlement of Texas. Austin, the capital of Texas, is named for Stephen, from Laurie Tavino’s book "Suffield's Old Bridge Neighborhood" (click on this link to purchase the book from Amazon).

Look to the River near Burbank Avenue and see the remaining pier supports for the old bridge to Thompsonville which played a great part in the development of this neighborhood. Across the River, the large buildings were once the Bigelow Carpet Mill where many of the River Boulevard residents once worked. The building is now a residential apartment complex.

Close the loop and return along River Boulevard now walking closer to houses and farms with a new perspective of River views on the way back to Deep Brook Harbor.

The Trail from Deep Brook Harbor to Hilltop Farm

The Trail to Hilltop Farm involves cutting through the Common Element area between Units 46 and 48 with a short stroll along Riverview Drive to pick up the trail to Hilltop Farm. Learn all about Hilltop Farm and the Friends of Hilltop Farm by clicking on the links. Many Deep Brook Harbor residents volunteer at the Farm and there is even a Community Garden where those with “green thumbs” can grow vegetables and flowers.