Here, the hiking gets a bit more rugged as the trail climbs steeply along the ridgeline, and there are some rocky sections that require scrambling. American Legion State Forest, Barkhamsted. Boasting lush forests, beautiful views of the Long Island Sound, and fantastic opportunities for hiking, Connecticut is an adventurer’s paradise in southern New England. Continue on the Green Trail along an earthen dam before heading back into the woods. Mountain biking is not permissible as per CT Statute Section 23-10a. You can climb an interior metal stairway to reach the top of this observation tower, which gives you a memorable vantage point of the greater Meriden area, including Sleeping Giant Mountain to the south and the Berkshire Mountains to the north. is easy-to-follow, yet feels far away from civilization. The Connecticut Forest & Park Association (CFPA) maintains over 825 miles of Blue-Blazed Trails in Connecticut, trails that wind through state parks and forests, land trusts, and across private land. If stunning mountain views are your top priority, the Pine Knob Loop Trail should be high on your list of the best hikes in Connecticut. This spur, known as the Metacomet Trail, takes you up toward a parking area near a high point called East Peak. In the fall, this section of the hike is particularly pleasant as the colorful foliage adds to the beauty of the landscape. Follow the. One of the most popular trails includes the blue-blazed Macedonia Ridge Trail. The eastern portion of the loop has some hills but nothing as long or steep as what you’ve already tackled. The Macedonia Brook Campground offers reservable campsites and rustic cabins. Glastonbury has numerous parks and open spaces with hiking trails and an active community that uses these facilities frequently. This section of the loop winds through the wooded western edge of Paugussett State Forest. Ives Trail Greenway. Tag: hiking trails in Connecticut Hiking & Lunch in CT: Talcott Mountain & Apollo’s Pizza and Pasta in Simsbury. Eventually, you’ll turn off the blue-blazed path onto the Appalachian Trail, which boasts its characteristic white blazes. Located near the region where Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts meet, Bear Mountain’s claim to fame as the highest peak in Connecticut comes with a small disclaimer. After parking your car at the Under Mountain Trailhead, you’ll start your journey in a beautiful forest. For the most part, the ascent is steady with a few steeper sections and rocky portions where you will have to watch your footing. You’ll know you have reached the summit when you come to a large, flat-topped rock pyramid that marks the peak. OR. With the pond in the background, you’ll then cross a rustic footbridge and make your way through a dense forest. Lots for dogs to see and explore. Pack a post-hike picnic lunch to enjoy at the nearby pavilion. In addition to hiking and camping, visitors can fish in the streams throughout the park. Conveniently located near downtown Meriden, offers a unique landscape mixed with history, making it an engaging spot to hike and explore. Orchard and Spruce Glen. As you round the final corner back toward your vehicle, however, keep an eye out for wildlife, as white-tailed deer are known to roam near the pond. In the winter, these frozen cascades and iced-over streams add to the picturesque setting. Although the trails are blazed and most of the junctions are marked, you may want to bring a map, a. s there are a few confusing intersections where a map will offer peace of mind that you are on the right track. Barkhamsted has approximately 130 miles of hiking options on 34 different trail combinations. In addition to hiking and camping, visitors can fish in the streams throughout the park. With the highway in your rear-view mirror, you’ll continue down the White Trail for a short distance before branching off to a spur trail. Located just north of Norwich, Mohegan Park is a lovely and well-kept park with a variety of activities that the entire family can enjoy. You’ll know you have reached the summit when you come to a large, flat-topped rock pyramid that marks the peak. Hiking Trails Near Enfield. As you reach the westernmost portion of the loop, there is one final steep hill before an easy hike back to the trailhead. What could be better? This forested trail crosses a wooden footbridge over a small creek and passes some rock formations on the left. Enfield, CT. Manituck Lookout. in addition to stopping by the dam for some photos is an added bonus if you have extra time. While hiking, visitors are surrounded by greenery and … Grab your snowshoes or cross-country skis in the winter for a peaceful experience on the snow-covered trails. Next Generation Hiking Trail Maps. Sign Up or Log In. Although the trails are blazed and most of the junctions are marked, you may want to bring a map, as there are a few confusing intersections where a map will offer peace of mind that you are on the right track. If you dream of standing atop Connecticut’s highest peak and casting your eyes out over beautiful New England, then this is the trek for you. 15 Connecticut trails to hike in 2021. From the trailhead, the loop starts on the, , a wooded trail that winds east and north toward Godfrey Pond. Eventually, you’ll pass by a campground and reach a junction with the Appalachian Trail. In the fall, this section of the hike is particularly pleasant as the colorful foliage adds to the beauty of the landscape. Regardless of the path you take, you’ll be treated to amazing views of the lake throughout your walk. From the trailhead, the loop starts on the Laurel Trail, a wooded trail that winds east and north toward Godfrey Pond. 11 Beautiful Hiking Trails In The NY And CT Area Trails you need to visit. Bear Mountain Reservation, Danbury: Great collection of wooded trails along Candlewood Lake. If your item has a manufacturing defect in its materials or workmanship, you can return it at any time. At its southern end, the trail comes to a junction with the, at the Lower Pond—this is an especially scenic spot in the fall. Please read your selected map for important trail use information. Pomfret Center, CT. Claire Birtz Wildlife Sanctuary . Conveniently located near downtown Meriden, Hubbard Park offers a unique landscape mixed with history, making it an engaging spot to hike and explore. Continue south on the Red Trail along the eastern shore of Lake Wintergreen. But, just to put all the naysayers to rest, we’d recommend bagging both Frissell and Bear. The start of the hike is located near Great Falls Dam; taking some time to learn about the. to the top of East Peak where you’ll find the 32-foot-tall stone tower of Castle Craig. When the leaves are off the trees, you can catch a glimpse of the stone tower along the climb. Reviews on Hiking Trails in Manchester, CT - Case Mountain, Laurel Marsh Trail, Valley Falls Park, Wickham Park, Hop River State Park Trail, Hockanum River Hiking Trail, Union Pond, Gay City State Park, Belding Wildlife Management, Riverfront Park Starting from the Lake Windwing parking area, hike past the iron gate on to the Red Trail which starts as a wide path. Intermediate. For those continuing on, the Macedonia Ridge Trail heads north, climbing several other peaks and offering more open views interspersed with strenuous climbs. Shoreline Trail (Photo Credit: HP Contributor Carol H). Air Line State Park Trail, Multi-Town. Located in Paugussett State Forest, the blue-blazed Zoar Trail offers a slightly more remote and secluded experience than some of the more well-known Connecticut public parks. The trails are wide and well-used, and the loop can be done year-round, even in the winter, as the trails are marked with colored blazes. At the northern end of the loop, you will briefly skirt Hilltop Pond before the trail loops back to the south. From here, you can stroll over to the stunning Castle Craig observation tower at the far end of the parking area and climb to the top. These places are best for hiking trails in Danbury: Tarrywile Park & Mansion. If you’re looking for other activities pre- or post-hike, pack a lunch and enjoy it at the pavilion or picnic area or, in the summer, swing by the swimming beach located on the east side of Spaulding Pond. The park’s rocky, wooded ridges are also ideal for hikers who seek a bit of elevation gain. East Hampton, CT Intermediate. If hiking the loop counterclockwise from the Mohegan Park Center Lot off Mohegan Park Road, start on the, heading south. The western side of the loop heads north from the trailhead, climbing steadily and steeply toward Cobble Mountain. Devil’s Hopyard—East Haddam This trail, located on 1,000 acres, is a top pick among Connecticut hiking enthusiasts. , where you’ll encounter some of the more challenging terrain in the park. The lake is most scenic in the summer and fall when the trees reflect in the still water of the lake. Macedonia Brook State Park offers a trail system with a combination of rugged and technical terrain and easier, mellow hiking for those not looking for a summit adventure. That’s because this loop offers a chance to check out other notable nearby features, like Hilltop Pond, before you stroll back to the parking lot after a long day of hiking. This short but sweet 2.5-mile loop begins right off of Highway 7 and climbs steadily upward to a small high point. The preserve features many miles of forested trails, ranging from the popular and well-used southern trails to the more challenging and rugged trails in the interior of the park. From here, head south along the Shoreline Trail. One of the best hiking trails in CT for adventurers of all ages, the path to Bear Mountain is a must if you love a good summit attempt. With more than 69 trails covering 569 miles you’re bound to find a perfect trail for you. The Ragged Mountain, Ct that is known for rock climbing and hiking in Connecticut can be explored from this trail. The trail passes a rock outcropping with views of the Connecticut River and overlooks across the valley. Hiking Trails. These 10 Hiking Spots In Connecticut Are Completely Out Of This World. Turn right onto the Yellow Trail, which is one of the highlights of the loop. In the summer, you can also stop by the. © 2021 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. This 6.5-mile trail crosses Cobble Mountain (elevation 1,380 feet) and provides breathtaking views of Catskill and Taconic mountains. Once you depart the parking area, you’ll follow a blue-blazed path through the trees until you meet up with the Appalachian Trail. For more experienced hikers, this can serve as a warm-up loop for a longer exploration of the park. Mountain biking is not permissible as per CT Statute Section 23-10a. You can hike the loop in either direction; hiking it clockwise will allow you to tackle the tough terrain first. Located adjacent to Pine Mountain, Wooster Mountain State Park, Seth Low Pierrepont State Park and Bennett’s Pond State Park, the trails offer extensive acreage to explore. After savoring the view, simply retrace your steps back to the trailhead. This viewpoint offers stunning views of the Catskills and Taconics. Visitors can also fish in the pond, and families with younger children can visit one of the two playgrounds by the lake. Moreover, some parts of the trail are particularly rocky, which makes trekking poles and proper hiking boots a must. In the warmer months, the lake is popular for boating, kayaking, fishing, tubing and waterskiing. If you aren’t up for the full loop, an out-and-back to Cobble Mountain is an equally good option. There’s decent swimming at Breakneck Pond as well as some fun places to take a dip at Bigelow Pond near the trailhead. If hiking the loop counterclockwise from the Mohegan Park Center Lot off Mohegan Park Road, start on the Blue Trail heading south. With several beautiful historic mining structures to explore, forested areas to walk through, and many rock formations to admire, this easy trail … With the summer winding down, we decided to explore the natural side of Connecticut. This hike mostly stays within the forest, though it offers plenty of opportunities to get some views over the surrounding area. to connect to the Laurel Trail which you follow back to the trailhead. Learn more and join us, Earn a $100 REI Gift Card when you apply, get approved and make any purchase within 60 days of card approval.Details, Mon–Fri, 5am–10pm PT Sat–Sun, 6am–9pm PT. At the end of the Shoreline Trail, continue on the Quinebaug River Trail, which loops around the Quinebaug River. Beyond this point, the trail gets a bit rougher as you climb upward to the state’s highest peak. Add a Symbol . in the state. Now, enough with the chit-chat, let’s talk about the hike itself. At the end of the Shoreline Trail, continue on the. Pack a snack or lunch for a picnic at the viewpoint before retracing your steps to the trailhead. The rocky promontories of the Hanging Hills, a range of ridges that are part of the longer Metacomet Ridge, give hikers unobstructed vantages of the surrounding area. That accolade belongs to a 2,380-foot-high spot on the state line located on the southern slope of Mount Frissell, a peak in Massachusetts. You’ll come to an area where a bridge used to connect to the opposite shore. Here, the hiking gets a bit more rugged as the trail climbs steeply along the ridgeline, and there are some rocky sections that require scrambling. OR. Learn more, At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. The trails are wide and well-used, and the loop can be done year-round, even in the winter, as the trails are marked with colored blazes. There are plenty of trails around Wallingford that are great for hiking and spending time outdoors locally. Godfrey Pond is a picturesque spot, and you may find yourself lingering in the area to take in the scenery. Pack a post-hike picnic lunch to enjoy at the nearby pavilion. This scenic area along the Housatonic River offers a pleasant combination of rolling hills, wooded terrain and open meadows, where you will have expansive views of the area. With mountains, beaches, lakes, and forests, there’s something for everyone in the great state of Connecticut. The pond has several conveniently located benches where you can rest your legs and soak up the scenery before heading home. Also, if you’re visiting during the summer months, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit for your hike. The flat trails offer a pleasant way to explore the park on foot. Create an Account - Increase your productivity, customize your experience, and engage in information you care about.. Sign In Barnes Industrial Rd. Hiking the loop clockwise allows you to tackle the steeper hills first, as you climb to the high point of the loop in a little more than 2 miles. The Wallingford Land Trust maintains over 200 acres of land as open space, preserving the natural habitat while making the land available for recreational use. White Memorial Foundation, Litchfield: More than 35 miles of trails, through varied terrains, are open year-round for hiking. But, your journey doesn’t end at the summit. Central and Southern CT is full of great parks, hiking trails and awesome overlooks, but this one seems quieter, despite the fact that the trailhead is in a suburban neighborhood. At this shelter, you can choose to continue either clockwise or counterclockwise around the lake. There are a couple of small streams with waterfalls that you will cross. The Macedonia Ridge Trail is one of the highlights of the park. Create Recommended Route or Trail . A solid choice for anyone that likes a challenge, the Zoar Trail is a fan-favorite hike in Paugussett State Forest. Older, more adventurous kids can try the hike up, but for families with younger children, driving to the summit parking area of the tower is also an option. The. The parks and forests scattered throughout the state have hundreds of miles of trail, and you can enjoy everything from easily accessible and well-kept suburban strolls to more rugged and technical backcountry hikes through secluded woods and hills. Start the hike on the White Trail, crossing Interstate 691 on a pedestrian bridge about half a mile into the hike. Water sports in the lake; hiking to tower at mountain top. From here, the trail widens and follows along the northern shore of Lake Windwing to finish the loop. The recreation area provides a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, boating, kayaking or playing a round of disc golf. Enfield, CT; Hiking ; 6 Base Layers That Will Keep You Warm All Winter It all starts with the base. Near the 7.5-mile mark, the Red Trail turns west and climbs very steeply. If so, give us a shout in the comments below to tell us all about your travels! MyOpenCountry is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. 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