Although Connecticut is a rare state only two hours outside of New York City, it offers some wonderful hiking opportunities throughout. Whether you’re looking for an easy, flat loop for the whole family to enjoy or a more strenuous hike for the more adventurous among us, Connecticut has it all. With over 700 miles of blue-colored trails, parks, greenways and all Appalachian trails run through Connecticut.
Here are five of the best day hikes in the great Constitution state.
1.Bear Mountain in Sarum, Ct.
Bear Mountain is the highest peak in Connecticut at 2,316 feet and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the state. There are 2 trails leading to the peak, and both of them are quite difficult. The first is under the Trail, which is also part of the Appalachian trail, the trail rises about 2 miles straight. it intersects with the Appalachians and then rises through another mile or so of steep ascent to reach the summit of Bear Mountain. The hike will give you amazing views of Connecticut’s landscape.
The second trail up Bear Mountain is a little easier but also a little longer. Starting at Lions Head you head up and on the Appalachian Trail. There is a short but steep section at the beginning of Lions Head, but the rest of the hike is quite manageable with a few opportunities to rest and recharge before moving on with the rest of the hike. Both trails are well maintained and clearly marked.
2. Tunxis Trail to the Indian Cave in Barkhamstead.
The trail begins on Route 219 in Barkhamstead, just past the reservoir. This well-maintained, well-marked trail is part of the larger Tunxi Trail system. The Indian caves themselves have some local stories or teachings, stories of supernatural events and Indian artifacts. indeed found around the cave. The hike itself is beautiful and scenic with only a few steep climbs. When you get closer to the caves there is a sign that will either look down on you, or point you up to the caves themselves. I recommend the supine route where you can get a great view of the caves and then climb a short distance to get a closer look.
This trail would be suitable for families with older children and provides a great day hike for any hiker from beginner to expert.
3. The Larkin Bridle Trail runs from Waterbury to Southbury.
The Larkin Bridle Trail, which runs from Waterbury to Southbury, is part of a transportation line that used to run from Connecticut to Upstate New York. Ten miles of this line were given to the state to be used as rails for the trail system. The Larking Trail is mainly used by hikers on foot and horseback but can sometimes be seen riding a mountain bike. footsteps The terrain of this track varies according to the location, time and weather, parts of the tracks are known as floods. and there are some rocky sections that can be tricky to navigate. There are also certain things on the roads that you should be careful of. The trail area closer to Southbury is relatively flat and east for walking, even with small children in tow.
Remember if you see horses on a walking trail slow down and avoid sudden movements and sounds.
The lark trail is primarily forest, but also offers some wetlands and rocks along the way.
4. Housatonic River Walk running from Kent to Cornwall.
A beautiful 4-5 mile stretch from Kent to Cornwall, Connecticut that follows the Housatonic River. Part of the Appalachian Trail is well maintained and easy. This hike is flat and the entire hike should only take two hours. This stretch is an absolute treasure, with plenty of wildlife and native plant species to capture. The land was loosened by the river and against human tracks. the train and the tracks have preserved their original beauty. This is also a great spot for bird watchers. Many species can be seen so it takes time to see some of the rarer native species and migrating birds area.
5. Salmon River Trail in Colestree.
This trail is part of the great blue trails crisscrossing the state, well maintained and well marked. The trail is a loop of about 7 miles and takes about 3 hours to complete. There is a small park about 3.5 -4 meters away that offers picnic tables and a view of the pool where you can rest and maybe You have a bite to eat.” There are hills on the hike but nothing too strenuous. The only thing known about this trail is that the trailhead is actually a covered bridge, the Comstock Bridge.
Trails lend themselves well to families or small children if they carry a fairly light pack of snacks and water. Another interesting note is that in the middle of the trail that you enter Dayhill Lake State Park is a small, man made beach. Another plus for families! While hiking this trail it is time to look at the rock formations and the old stone walls that are scattered throughout.
