Located in Franklin, Ayers Gap conceals a cascading waterfall amidst crags of exposed rock outcrops. You will enjoy flowing brooks, waterfalls, hemlocks and yellow birch in addition to the gorge and waterfall known as Bailey's Ravine. If you ever wanted to see the metamorphic rock Scotland Schist, look for a dark gray rock. Above the ravine, a trail provides a terrific view of the Franklin countryside. In the cliffs that overhang Bailey Brook, a delicate fern known to exist in only five other CT locations makes its home in the moist recesses of the rock outcrops. A loop trail brings visitors well into the preserve proper and provides easy access to the sights to be enjoyed there. Keep an eye out for woodland birds!
Ayers Gap is significant as rare plant habitat and is located on 80 acres. Open dawn to dusk. The Nature Conservancy purchased the land from Felice Marnicki in 1988.