Today, we’re excited to announce that Better Place Forests Litchfield Hills is officially open for online forest tours! We’re thrilled to open our fifth forest and expand to the Northeast — allowing more people to leave a meaningful legacy for the planet and the people they love. 

Located in Falls Village, Connecticut, this 130-acre forest is just an hour’s drive from Hartford and two hours from New York City. It’s also an easy day trip from neighboring cities Boston and Providence. The local area is known for its lush green hills, outdoor recreation, and environmental treasures like the Housatonic River, Bear Mountain, and the southernmost portion of the Berkshires. When you step into the forest you can’t help but be entranced by its New England charm, rich biodiversity, and iconic vistas.

We can’t wait for you to experience the beauty of this forest. Get a first look at Better Place Forests Litchfield Hills in this short video:

Take a look at our newest memorial forest in Falls Village, Connecticut

We’ve received tremendous support from the local community and former landowner, Susan Kelsey. Susan is a forester and environmentalist who has served on the local town’s Inland Wetlands/Conservation Commission for the last 40 years. Susan has been incredibly supportive, even becoming our first Better Place Forests Litchfield Hills customer! To thank Susan for her dedication to the forest, we’ve named a small creek that runs through the property Kelsey Creek. It’s been an honor to work with Susan to protect this important forestland that has been such an integral part of her life. 

“I love the idea that Better Place Forests will help protect this property and its natural beauty for generations to come. Falls Village is known for its lush greenery and iconic, open spaces, and I’m inspired knowing that this forest will continue to be conserved while offering such a peaceful way for the families and friends of our community to memorialize one’s life.” – Susan Kelsey

We’re happy to be able to provide the community of Falls Village with a meaningful and sustainable memorial option. It’s important to us that we make a positive impact on the community, which is why we focus on hiring local forest stewards and arborists to help care for the forest. We know that no one knows and loves the area as much as our local experts who ensure the health and wellbeing of our forests.

Fall foliage in Better Place Forests Litchfield Hills

The Litchfield Hills forest is filled with five deciduous tree varieties — northern red oak, chestnut oak, red maple, sugar maple, and black cherry. Starting today, you can select your perfect memorial tree during a free online forest tour. Currently, we’re offering trees in three beautiful and distinct sections:

• Valley Vista: Impressive trees with a sweeping valley view that is sure to inspire your inner artist — fall brings a kaleidoscope of vibrant reds and unforgettable yellows.
• Laurel Highlands: A nature lover’s paradise: peaceful and secluded. This serene and airy ridgetop is immersed in spring blooms. An easy stroll from the future Welcome House, large boulders create the perfect natural benches that invite visitors to sit and relax.
• Lower Revolutionary Ridge: Wide hiking trails along a gentle slope with historical remnants from colliers and shepherds that may date back to the Revolutionary War.

One of our forest stewards showing guests around the forest

Best of all, we’re offering first customers a chance to become early supporters of Better Place Forests Litchfield Hills. Early supporters receive special perks and discounts, including first pick of trees and up to 20% savings (over $1,000 on our most popular packages.) Our first customers will also have their names inscribed in the forest to commemorate their early support.

While we’ve been preparing the forest, we’ve received kind mentions from NBC Connecticut, The Litchfield County Times, and other local news sources. Over the next few months, we’ll be preparing for in-person tours which will begin in June 2021, and memorial ceremonies that will start the following summer. 

We’re so excited for you to experience Better Place Forests Litchfield Hills. Book your online forest tour to begin creating a legacy that’s good for the planet and your community.