Located in the historic center of Bethany, the Edna L. Delano Nature Sanctuary and Rodell’s Roost for Robins offer hikers a short but interesting walk in the woods right next to Amity Road (Route 63).
The Delano Sanctuary was given to the Bethany Land Trust in 1996 by Hubert and William Delano. It is named in honor of their mother, Edna Delano, who lived for many years in the Lysias Beecher House to the north side of the property. The Beecher House, built in 1762, is one of the oldest homes in Bethany.
Rodell’s Roost was given to the Land Trust in 1999 by Janet Rodell, her stepson Michael Rodell, and his wife Taffy. It borders the western side of the Delano Sanctuary, with trails leading to the Bethany Community School and out to Falls Road.
Trails:
The Delano Trail (0.3 miles) loops around the Delano Sanctuary while the Falls Road Trail (0.11 miles) enters the Sanctuary from Falls Road. The Rodell’s Trail (0.15 miles) climbs a small hillside, from which seasonal views are possible. Looking across Amity Road from the Delano Sanctuary, visitors can see the Clark Memorial Library, the Episcopal Church and the Bethany Historical Society building. To the south is the Congregational Church and the historic Carriage Shed, where parishioners left their horses and carriages while attending services across the street.
Address: 535 Amity Road and 15 Falls Road, Bethany CT
Area: 6.15 acres
Parking: Parking for these two trails is located behind either Clark Memorial Library or, except for Sunday mornings, behind the Bethany Congregational Church. Parking for one car also available on Falls Road.
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