There is a reason Connecticut was named the best state in America for hiking last year by Why This Place.
The Nutmeg state hosts numerous well- and lesser-known trails, giving hikers a bevvy of choices to enjoy all the natural beauty the state has to offer. Coupled with warming spring temperatures and blooming foliage, now makes a perfect time to lace up your hiking boots and take a trip through Connecticut’s picturesque wilderness.
If you are looking for a new trail to explore or want to spend the day with nature, we have got you covered.
Here is a list of 18 trails to check out across Connecticut.
Talcott Mountain Yellow Trail in Simsbury
Located just a couple towns over from Hartford, Talcott Mountain Yellow Trail is a 2.8-mile trek perfect for beginners or those looking for a quick hike. Make sure you keep your dog on a leash if you bring your furry friend.
Stoney Lonesome Trail, Norfolk
What better way to avoid crowds than to head to the“Stoney Lonesome” trailhigh above Norfolk into East Canaan.
Laurel Marsh Trail in Manchester
Another easy-going trail for the whole family, Laurel Marsh should take hikers around an hour to complete its 3.4-mile loop. It is a popular trail for runners, too, as well as birding.
Sunnybrook State Park, Torrington
Nestled in Torrington,Sunnybrook State Parkincludes trails that run along the banks of the East Branch of the Naugatuck River.
Mattabesett and Mount Higby Trail in Middlefield
Looking for a long hike? Mattabesett’s 9.3 miles of scenic Connecticut foliage is a great choice to soak in a crisp fall day. It is also a popular birding destination, so bring your camera.
Kensington Orchards Preserve, Berlin
A hike through theKensington Orchards Preservein Berlin offers some spectacular views. It also provides the opportunity to hook up with miles of trails in the Chotkowski Conservation Area and Camp Meribrite.
St. Johns Ledges to Glacier Rock in Kent
While a bit of a hike from Hartford, Kent is one of Connecticut’s most beautiful towns. Traveling the 8.6-mile trail of St. Johns Ledges should take seasoned hikers roughly five hours to complete. Bring your canine companions, too; just make sure they are leashed.
Scantic River State Park, Enfield/East Windsor/Somers
The Scantic River State Park encompasses more than 780 acres spread across three towns, but for the purposes of this list, we look specifically at Enfield, where, Scantic River Linear Park West features scenic views of the river, a farm, a forest filled with huge white pines.
Jessie Gerard Trail in Barkhamsted
While only 3 miles, Jessie Gerard Trail can be more challenging for less experienced hikers. Even so, expect a shorter hike compared to the longer trails, with plenty of opportunities for photography and birding. If you plan on bringing a dog, make sure they stay on a leash.
Sprague Land Preserve, Sprague
There are 11-12 miles of trails available in the sprawlingSprague Land Preservein the eastern part of Connecticut.
Chauncey Peak Trail in Meriden
While on the shorter end, Chauncey Peak Trail will take you around the Bradley Hubbard Reservoir: a beautiful body of water to compliment the colors of autumn. This 2.3-mile hike will take you right back to where you started. Feel free to bring your pet as well; there are even some areas where they can be off-leash.
Derby Greenway Trail, Derby
A 1.7-mile paved multiuse pathruns along the top of dikes high above the Naugatuck River and Housatonic River.
Peak Mountain via Metacomet Trail in East Granby
Pet-friendly and close to the heart of Connecticut, Peak Mountain is a great choice to get in a satisfying hike. Make sure you have your camera ready for this 3.7-mile out-and-back trail.
Horse Guard State Park, Avon
Horse Guard State ParkScenic Reserve doesn’t have elaborate trail systems, vast parking lots, websites and detailed maps and facilities. But, it does offer one of the best views in Avon and a respite from large crowds.
Cedar Mountain Loop in Newington
Short and sweet, Cedar Mountain Loop is an easy-going choice for families and folks new to hiking. The entire 1.1-mile route should take less than an hour to complete, giving you time to snap a few pictures and explore the state’s natural beauty.
Suburban Park, Unionville
Along the 4 miles of trails you’ll find the remnants of an abandoned 20th Century amusem*nt park, glacial kettle holes and the scenic Roaring Brook.
American Legion State Forest, Barkhamsted
There are a pair of trails in American Legion State Forest – Henry Buck and Turkey Vulture Ledges. The Henry Buck trail is a 2.3-mile loop while the Turkey Vulture is a mile-long out and back path.
Black Rock State Park, Watertown
The 439-acre Black Rock State Park offers beautiful overlooks. The main hiking trail – the Connecticut Forest and Park Association’s blue-blazed Mattatuck Trail – is approximately a half-mile from an iron bridge at the northern end of the pond. It’s a half mile uphill and will give visitors a workout.
