The forest surrounding Hop Brook Lake is made up of a wide variety of trees including maple, oak, hickory, ash, birch, white pine and hemlock. Wildlife is abundant in the area. Bird watchers have the opportunity to see hawks, owls, osprey, turkeys, waterfowl, numerous songbirds and the occasional bald eagle. White-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, foxes, bobcats, raccoons, possums, beaver, squirrels and many other animals make Hop Brook Lake their home.
Recreation: Exploring Hop Brook Lake by canoe, kayak or rowboat is a favorite activity of visitors. The park's beach and designated swimming area are also a great place to relax in the warm summer sun. Fishing is welcome at the lake and its feeder streams, which are periodically stocked by the CT. DEEP with brown, brook, and rainbow trout. Largemouth bass, perch and panfish are also found in the lake. Hikers, walkers, mountain bikers, cross country skiers and snowshoers will find over seven miles of trails that wind throughout the woods and meadows at Hop Brook Lake.