Nature Trail

Boardwalk to Cemetery

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The Nature Trail at Thomas Stone NHS offers an array of choices for our recreational users. From a short 1/2 mile stroll from the Visitor Center to the Stone Family Cemetery, to a more than two mile long walk around the entirety of the 328-acre park, this easy-to-moderate, unpaved trail will allow visitors to explore at their own pace. As a reminder, please follow all social distancing guidelines while on the Nature Trail.

Each of the trail segments can be used individually or linked together for a longer walk.

Segment 1- Visitor Center to Stone Family Cemetery (Short Segment-Easy)- 1/2 mile round trip (photo below)
The trail starts at the rear entrance to the park Visitor Center and covers approximately 400 yards one way to the Stone Family Cemetery where Thomas Stone, his wife, Margaret, and seven other Stone family members were interred from 1787-1913. Four small markers outside the fenced area mark the outline of a potential second cemetery although further research needs to be conducted.

Segment 2- Visitor Center to Stone Family Cemetery (Long Segment-Moderate)- 1.2 miles round trip
The trail starts to the left of the front entrance to the park Visitor Center by the park orientation wayside. Head South for approximately 600 yards and the trail will veer right. There is a steep decline (approximately 7% grade) of approximately 200 yards at this spot and loose gravel can cause footing issues. Continue on the trail for approximately 800 yards until you see a second orientation wayside. Turn right and follow the trail for 300 yards to a split in the trail. Follow the right fork of the trail for approximately 200 yards until you reach the cemetery.

Segment 3- Visitor Center to Stone Mansion (Short Segment-Easy)- 3/4 mile round trip
The trail starts at the rear entrance to the park Visitor Center, passing and covers approximately 600 yards to the Stone Mansion.

Segment 4- Visitor Center to Stone Mansion (Short Segment-Moderate)- 1.4 miles round trip
The trail starts to the left of the front entrance to the park Visitor Center by the park orientation wayside. Head South for approximately 600 yards and the trail will veer right. There is a steep decline (approximately 7% grade) of approximately 200 yards at this spot and loose gravel can cause footing issues so use caution. Continue on the trail for approximately 800 yards until you see a second orientation wayside. Turn right and follow the trail for 300 yards to a split in the trail. Follow the left fork of the trail for approximately 400 yards until you reach the Stone Mansion.

Segment 5- Visitor Center to Farm Outbuildings (Moderate)- 2.1 miles round trip
The trail starts to the left of the front entrance to the park Visitor Center by the park orientation wayside. Head South for approximately 600 yards and the trail will veer right. There is a steep decline (approximately 7% grade) of approximately 200 yards at this spot and loose gravel can cause footing issues. Continue on the trail for approximately 800 yards until you see a second orientation wayside. Continue straight on the trail for approximately 1200 yards, passing the Tenant House until you arrive at the park road/trail in front of the Tobacco Barn and Corn Crib. There is more loose gravel on the park road so use caution Turn right, passing the Stables and following the park road/trail for approximately 800 yards until you reach the Visitor Center.

 

Nature Trail Map

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What you need to know

Be prepared for heat, humidity, biting insects, and fast approaching storms

What to carry

Sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and water are highly recommended for walks any time of year. In summer, a lightweight longlseeve shirt and insect repellent are recommended.

Weather

Know the weather forecast before beginning long hikes.

Personal Responsibility

Hikers should assume individual responsibility for planning their trips and hiking safely. You will increase your odds of a safe hike, decrease your disturbance to park wildlife, and lessen damage to resources.