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Hiking in CT 10 places to go

Matthies Park has a lot to do, and an interesting history. It sports eight different trails, a huge pond for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and even a playground for the little ones. Bernard Matthies was a well known local citizen who donated over 300 acres to the town of Beacon Falls. He only had one rule that the town had to stand by: the land would be used only for educational and recreational purposes. In his letter to the town found on Citizens News he had expressed his hope for the future of the land.

“I believe it is a perfect location for a future school and campus to be built,” Matthies wrote, “I hope in connection with the school that access for entrance to and from the school will be separate from the park and recreation areas.”

Quinnipiac Blue Trail is very well-maintained and marked so you know exactly where you’re going. Not only is it easy to navigate, but also mostly level all the way through and quite short compared to other trails at a total distance of 3.3 miles.

Farmington Canal Linear State Park in Cheshire is much longer at a total distance of 10.3 miles. There are a variety of trails to choose from, varying from beginner to advanced. The trails are roughly six feet wide, allowing visitors to go running, biking, or walking.

Pomperaug and Crest Trail Loop in Southbury has multiple ponds and rivers along the trail and is mainly used for hiking, running, and nature trips. While not being the longest trail, at a total distance of 3.4 miles, it is heavily trafficked and enjoyed by many.

The Larkin State Bridle Trail starts in Southbury and extends throughout multiple towns, ending in Naugatuck. While many go to walk and run the trail, there are also those who enjoy biking and horseback riding.

Trails that have something out of the ordinary often catch the eye of many people and the Leatherman Cave Trail in Watertown is definitely one of them. While being the shortest trail on this list, (2.2 miles) the Leatherman Cave Trail is heavily trafficked and mainly enjoyed for the caves it provides. The caves' interiors make up for their size. While being more on the small side, the caves can make some great photos. Although getting to this point can be a bit tricky seeing as some parts of the trail you might need to do a bit of rock climbing.

The path leading up to the main attraction at Sleeping Giant Tower Trail is tedious although there are easier trails from which to choose. The trail distance is only about 3 miles but may take most of the day to walk to and from the tower. The tower at the end makes the whole experience worth it considering the stunning autumn leaves and cliff faces you can see from up there.

Hubbard Park in Meriden is quite extensive and goes beyond hiking trails but a great choice is the Mirror Lake or the White Trail. This would be a great trail for people who are up for a challenge, seeing as it can get quite rocky and steep. Similar to Sleeping Giant, Hubbard park has a small tower at the end that looks out on a remarkable lake and rolling hills. Because of this, it is a high trafficking path so be mindful of that while traversing.

The trails at Whittemore Sanctuary in Woodbury are very well maintained and have clear markings making the path easy to navigate; but the trails also add in a little bit of a challenge with the uphills, downhills, winding, and rocks. Many come here for the hike but the Whittemore Sanctuary Trails are also known for its birdwatching and photography opportunities.

The Ives Trail Greenway in Danbury, Connecticut measures about 14.6 miles long and is moderately trafficked. At times the trails can be very steep and challenging, but at others, straight and quite easy. The scenic opportunities are a bit lacking but both the beginning and the end ponds make up for it.

Overall, Connecticut has many great opportunities to enjoy hiking this fall. Nonetheless, hiking trails have been proved to be not only enriching but also a great way to improve your health. Whether you want a challenge, or an easy leisurely walk, there is a favorite trail out there for everyone.

Created By
Juniper Araujo
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