Timeline
06:39
Chalet Wildlife Management Area Windsor Road Parking
Start at the Chalet Wildlife Management Area Windsor Road Parking. This is your base for the morning. The drive from E Main St via Windsor Rd is straightforward, but if you come from Rt 116, take Stafford Hill Road and turn right onto Windsor Rd at the junction.
06:57
Walk north-northeast for 18 minutes to reach the summit of Stafford Hill. This is a short, steady climb. You will reach the top just as the sun begins to crest the horizon.
07:19
Watch the sunrise from the summit. On January 15, the sun rises at 07:19 and sets toward the WSW. The golden light starts about 16:00, but for the sunrise moment, the early morning light will be crisp and clear. Take in the view of the surrounding forest and fields.
07:39
Chalet Wildlife Management Area Windsor Road Parking
Walk back down to the Windsor Road Parking lot. The descent is quicker than the climb. Once back at the car, you are ready to head out for breakfast or coffee. Note that there are no food or drink shops listed in the immediate context for Cheshire, so check local options in nearby towns like Southwick or Agawam for early morning cafes.
Local tip
The walk to the summit is short but can be icy in January. Wear sturdy shoes. There are no food or drink options at the wildlife management area, so plan to eat after your visit.
Check before you go
- Check the weather forecast for visibility at sunrise.
- There are no food or drink shops at the site. Plan to eat after your visit.
- In winter, bring headlamps or flashlights for the early morning walk.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Cheshire (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).