The Pinchot Sycamore Tree: Too Big for a Hug
“I stepped under its vast cover and thick branches that seem to spread endlessly across the sky.”
If you're searching for a huggable tree, the Pinchot Sycamore in Simsbury, CT isn't it. With a massive 28-foot trunk, 100-foot height, and a canopy spanning 140 feet, it's far beyond a solo embrace—you'll need friends! As Connecticut's largest tree and over 200 years old, it stands as a towering, wise giant.
The Pinchot during the summer
The Pinchot is tucked away in a small park on the banks of the Farmington River. It’s located Pinchot Sycamore Park on route 185 (right by the bridge that crosses over the river) in Simsbury, Connecticut. The tree also serves as the official town symbol for Simsbury.
There is no way to truly appreciate this tree and its grandiosity until you stand under its sprawling canopy. I stepped under its vast cover and thick branches that seem to spread endlessly across the sky. I felt like an ant standing next to this giant. As I was standing there, I appreciated the long journey this tree endured to get this big. If only this tree could talk, I bet it would have some fascinating stories to tell.
“Hugging” the Pinchot Sycamore
The Pinchot Sycamore was dedicated on May 1, 1965 in memory of Gifford Pinchot and was rededicated in 1978. Mr. Pinchot was a strong advocate of trees and forestry. He was a Simsbury resident and co-founder of the Yale School of Forestry, First Chief of the U.S. Forestry Service, and Conservation Advisor to President Roosevelt and Governor of Pennsylvania. He was ardent environmental preservationist—a true tree hugger of his time.
Memorial marker
In 2005, a guitar was made from a fallen bough of the Pinchot Sycamore and was auctioned off by the Farmington River Watershed Association—what a great way to recycle and reuse! In October 2011, the Pinchot Sycamore sustained some damage from an early snowstorm New Englanders called “Snowtober." Luckily, the tree did not experience major damage to its larger limbs and continued to flourish and grow.
Aside from marveling at this huge tree, this spot is a popular spot for picnicking. There is also a boat launch onto the Farmington River for small, non-motorized boats. During the warmer months, it gets a bit crowded during the weekends. It’s closed during the winter. This spot is hidden from sight and is partly blocked by the bridge. If you do visit this majestic tree, you will not be disappointed—even if you can’t hug it.
“Take only memories, leave only footprints.”
Directions
Route 185, Hartford Road (right below the bridge)
Simsbury, CT
06070
More Information
Hours:
Sunrise-Sunset
*Closed during winter months
Fees:
None
Activities:
Picnicking
Boating (small non-motorized boats)
Enjoying nature
