Willard Brook State Forest encompasses 2,597 acresand offersthe character and feeling of forests usually found much farther west in the state, with a tumbling brook and quick water amid groves of classic New England woods. The popular Friends Trail Loop is a 4-mile trail that connects Willard Brook with Pearl Hill State Park, with hikers needing to plan for at least a 3-hour adventure. Trails in the forest featurestream and wetland views with wildflowers blooming in spring, and attract deer, squirrels, and various bird species. Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiingandswimming, birding, fishing, horseback riding and winter trail sports.