Connecticut's parks, nature centers, arboretums offer great walking trails

From riversides to hill country to the seaside, Connecticut has many wonderful places for walking and hiking. The state parks alone could provide a lifetime of great hikes.

Featured Listings

Connecticut College Arboretum

270 Mohegan Avenue New London, CT 06320 Phone: 860-439-5020

Over 750 acres of beautifully preserved open space

Connecticut College Arboretum's 750 acres include the college campus, plant collections, natural areas, and managed areas. Its three major plants collections for public enjoyment are the Campus Landscape with 120 acres of trees and shrubs from around the world; the Native Plant collection, with 20 acres of woody plants and wildflowers indigenous to North America with a pond, and walking trails; Caroline Black Garden with an exquisite display of diverse woody plants in a garden setting. Open every day from sunrise to sunset. Free public guided tours every Sunday afternoon May - October at 2 p.m. Call 860-439-5060 for more information. Private group tours can be arranged upon request.
Informational Listings Courtesy of VisitNewEngland.com
Fairfield/Southwest Hartford/Central Litchfield/Northwest
Mystic/Eastern New Haven/South Central
Fairfield/Southwest top of listings

Audubon Center of Greenwich

613 Riversville Road Greenwich, CT Phone: 203-869-5272

Open Year Round Monday - Sunday

This 285-acre nature sanctuary in the backcountry of Greenwich CT has 7 miles of walking trails, nature exhibit displays, a children's learning center, a nature gift shop and nature arts gallery. Nature programs year round for all ages, summer nature camp and school programs. Admission fee.

Bartlett Arboretum

151 Brookdale Road Stamford, CT Phone: 203-322-6971

Open: Daily, year round

Set on 63 acres. Visitors will find woodland and swamp environments, as well as a pond. There are several ecology trails, a swamp walk, library and greenhouse. No charge for admission.

Connecticut Audubon Society Birdcraft Museum

314 Unquowa Road Fairfield, CT 06824 Phone: 203-259-0416

Open: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Historic (1914) museum highlights natural history of the state with dioramas, wildlife exhibits, and dinosaur footprints. Adjacent 6-acre sanctuary with trails. A National Historic Landmark, first nature center in America, on the Connecticut Women’s Heritage Trail. Admissions: Adults, $2; children, $1.

CT Audubon Society Nature Center

2325 Burr Street Fairfield, CT Phone: 203-259-6305

Open: Year round, Tuesday - Saturday

On this site visitors will find exhibits, a library and a gift shop. In addition, there is an injured bird compound where visitors can observe the treatment and recuperation of birds that have been harmed in the wild. The 160 acre Larsen Sanctuary has many trails that wind through the woods and around ponds, including walks for the blind, elderly and disabled.

Darien Nature Center

120 Brookside Road Darien, CT Phone: 203-655-7459

Open: Year-round, Monday - Saturday

This center has a natural walking trail and exhibits featuring live animals. Childrens programs are held year round. Free admission.

Devil's Den Preserve

33 Pent Road Weston, CT Phone: 203-226-4991

Telephone: 203-226-4991 Open: Daily, year-round

More than 20 miles of hiking trails and several historical sites are featured on this preserve. Programs are scheduled throughout the year. No admission fee.

Earthplace

10 Woodside Lane Westport, CT Phone: 203-227-7253

Open: Year-round, daily except major holidays

Interactive natural history museum, hands-on exhibits for children, live animals, trails, playground and a gift shop are all part of this 62 acre wildlife sanctuary. Admission: Adults and children older than 12, $7; children and seniors, $5. Grounds and outdoor bird enclosures free. Information: www.earthplace.org

Indian Well State Park

Howe Avenue Shelton, CT Phone: 203-735-4311

The park's scenic waterfalls and splash pool give this park its name, Indian Well. The lovely falls, and shaded picnic grove at the water's edge make this park a great place to spend a lazy summer day. Activities include boating, picnicking, field sports, hiking, river fishing, and swimming. Facilities: bathrooms, picnic shelter, and boat launch (trailered, open April through September, 203-735-4311). Park fees: Weekends, $14 for residents and $20 for non-residents; weekdays, $10 and $14. All days, $8 after 4 p.m.

Mianus River Preserve

Westover Road Stamford, CT Phone: 203-977-4692

Open: Daily, year round

Facilities for walking, hiking, biking and fishing. No charge for admission.

New Canaan Nature Center

144 Oenoke Ridge New Canaan, CT 06840 Phone: 203-966-9577

Dedicated to helping people of all ages better understand, appreciate and care for the world of nature

Take a fascinating look into the science and nature in the area. Set on 40 acres, the nature center features gardens and a solar-heated greenhouse, as well as many trails, exhibits, an arboretum, live animals, and a maple sugar shed.
Hours: Grounds open dawn to dusk daily; buildings and officer open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Donation requested.

Old Greenwich

Greenwich, CT

Open: Year round

One of Connecticut's most picturesque spots features a lovely park, surrounded by historic homes and churches. A favorite setting for wedding photographs and the perfect place for a stroll.

Ordway Preserve

165 Goodhill Weston, CT Phone: 203-226-4991

Telephone: 203-226-4991 Open: Daily, year-round

This preserve is home to an arboretum with 3 miles of walking trails. Special programs are scheduled on the site throughout the year. No admission fee.

Weir Farm National Historic Site

735 Nod Hill Road Wilton, CT Phone: 203-834-1896

Open: Year Round; April - October, daily; November - March, Mon - Fri

A national park that was the impressionist artist J. Alden Weir's summer home. The park hosts many exhibits and special programs. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking and nature trails.
Hartford/Central top of listings

Cockaponset State Forest and Pattaconk Lake Recreation Area

18 Ranger Road Haddam, CT Phone: 860-566-2304

The second largest forest in the state, set on 15,652 acres. Areas for fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, hiking and cross-country ski trails, fresh water swimming and picnic areas.

Connecticut Audubon Center

1361 Main Street Glastonbury, CT Phone: 860-633-8402

Open: Tues-Fri, 1-5 pm; Sat, 10 am-5 pm; Sun, 1-4 pm; Closed the last week in December

Maintained by the Audubon Society of CT, this science and nature center features exhibits on area wildlife and plants, and a hands-on area for children. A gift shop and programs are available year-round. The center is located next to Earle Park, a 48-acre outdoor setting with numerous walking trails.

Devil's Hopyard State Park

366 Hopyard Road East Haddam, CT Phone: 860-873-8566

The centerpiece of this beautiful park is the 60-foot Chapman Falls. A popular hiking and camping area, the park also has areas for fresh-water fishing, as will as some scenic picnic spots. Activities include bicycling, birding, camping, hiking, picnicking, and stream fishing.Devil's Hopyard Campground offers 21 sites in a wooded setting. Camping is available from mid-April through September 30. Facilities include grills, picnic shelters, picnic tables, composting toilets.There are no parking fees, but there is a nightly camping fee.

Dinosaur State Park

400 West Street Rocky Hill, CT Phone: 860-529-8423

Open: Daily, 9 am - 4:30 pm

One of New England's most amazing places, Dinosaur Park features authentic dinosaur tracks that are 200 million years old. These are protected under a dome, which also houses exhibits and special programs that are held throughout the year. Visitors with their own materials are permitted to take plaster casts of the tracks.

Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens

Corner of Prospect Avenue and Asylum Avenue Hartford, CT Phone: 860-231-9443

The park’s world famous rose garden is the oldest municipally operated rose garden in the country. The two-and-a half-acre rose garden has 15,000 plants in about 800 varieties of roses. The park is also home to a rock garden and specialized gardens of annuals, herbs, and perennials. Open: Daily all year, dawn to dusk.

Gay City State Park

Hebron, CT

This rustic, rural park is the perfect place for fishing, hiking and walking, and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Gillette Castle State Park and Mansion

67 River Road, off Route 82 East Haddam, CT 06423 Phone: 860-526-2336

One of the most remarkable parks in the state, Gillette Castle State Park features a mansion built in 1919 for actor William Gillette, who was famous for his role as Sherlock Holmes. Tours are given on days that the mansion is open (call for exact times). The park itself is set on the Connecticut River and features fishing areas, short hiking trails and picnic spots. The Castle is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day. Staff are available to assist with questions about the castle interior and its history. The grounds are open year round.

Hubbard Park

West Main Street Meriden, CT 06450 Phone: 203-630-4259

Hubbard Park is located around East Peak and West Peak of the area called the Hanging Hills. It comprises approximately 1,800 acres of carefully kept woodland, lake and stream, flower gardens, and picnic spots.
Hours: April-October, daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fee: Call for details.

Hungerford Park

191 Farmington Avenue Kensington, CT Phone: 860-827-9064

Open: Tuesday - Friday, year-round

This park is home to a farm, a collection of exotic animals, a system of trails, science exhibits and programs led by the New Britain Youth Museum.

Hurd Park

Route 151 East Hampton, CT Phone: 860-526-2336

An 884 acre park on the east bank of the Connecticut River. Canoeing, including facilities for canoe camping, fishing, hiking and cross-country ski trails, and picnic areas are available.

Lock 12 Historical Park

487 North Brooksvale Road (Route 42) Cheshire, CT 06410 Phone: 203-272-2743

Open: Biking trail and picnic area open year-round, call for museum schedule.

Restored section of Farmington Canal (1828-48). Park also includes museum, lockkeeper's house, helicoidal bridge, 2.9-mile hiking/biking trail, picnic area. Admission: Free.

Oak Grove Nature Center

Oak Grove Street Manchester, CT Phone: 860-643-0949

Open: Daily, dawn to dusk

Free admission to this nature center, featuring picturesque nature trails.

Roaring Brook Nature Center

70 Gracey Road Canton, CT Phone: 860-693-0263

Tues - Sat, 10 am - 5 pm; Sun 1 - 5 pm; July-Aug, also Monday, 10 am - 5 pm

This nature center features walking trails, live animals and an Indian longhouse. Classes and special programs are also scheduled periodically throughout the year.

Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area

Route 69 Burlington, CT Phone: 860-675-8130

Open: Year-round, dawn to dusk

Visitors to this natural preserve are treated to a beaver marsh, an observation tower, and a waterfall. Walking and hiking trails feature information signs and demonstrations of wildlife management practices.

Stratton Brook State Park

149 Farms Village Road (Route 309) Simsbury, CT Phone: 860-242-1158

Stratton Brook is a completely wheelchair accessible park offering swimming, picnicking and interpretive programs in a beautifully wooded setting. Stratton Brook State Park is a designated trout park. Activities bicycling, hiking, field sports, picnicking, fishing, swimming, cross-country skiing, ice skating. Facilities: bathrooms, changing houses, picnic shelters, picnic tables, seasonal interpretive displays.

Talcott Mountain State Park

Route 185 Simsbury, CT Phone: 860-242-1158

This park is located on the site of a Hartford family's former summer home. The main feature is the Heublein Tower, 165 feet high, with four states visible from the top. The tower is reached by hiking a 1.5 mile trail. A museum detailing the history of the area is also located in the park. Tower open late May to end of August, Thursday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; labor Day through October 31, daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tomasso Nature Park

Granger Lane Plainville, CT Phone: 860-747-6022

Open: March 15 - November 15, dawn to dusk

This 11 acre nature park includes 4 acres of wetlands. Visitors can observe varieties of animals, birds and fish. Walking trails provide ample views of native flora. Free admission.

Wickham Park

1329 West Middle Turnpike Manchester, CT 06040 Phone: 860-528-0856

This park features 10 acres of gardens and an aviary, recreational and sports areas, and walking trails. The park contains 250 acres of gardens, open fields, woodlands, ponds, picnic areas, sports facilities, and other attractions.
Hours: First weekend in April through the last weekend in October and for dates listed on the Web site under ‘special events.’ Hours: 9:30 a.m.-sunset except in inclement weather. Fee for parking.
Litchfield/Northwest top of listings

American Legion State Forest

West River Road Barkhamsted, CT

The rocky terrain of this state forest is home to a small campsite, picnic areas, fishing, sports areas, hunting, and trails for hiking and cross-country skiing.

Bear Mountain

Route 41 Salisbury, CT

A challenging hike of almost 7 miles awaits visitors, who will begin on the Undermountain Trail, join the Appalachian Trail, and then make a steep ascent up Bear Mountain to its peak (2,316 feet above sea level). At the summit is a monument marking the spot as the highest in the state of Connecticut.

Black Rock Park

Route 6 Thomaston, CT Phone: 860-677-1819

Park is on the site of a colonial era graphite mine. Visitors here can enjoy swimming, stream fishing, pond fishing, boating, hiking and cross-country ski trails, and winter ice skating.

Black Rock State Park

Watertown Road (Route 6) Thomaston, CT Phone: 860-283-8088

Black Rock offers excellent swimming, hiking, scenic views, and Indian legend all tucked into the scenic rolling hills of the western highlands of Connecticut. Black Rock Campground has 96 sites in a wooded setting. The camping season is mid-April through September 30. This is a designated trout park. Activities include picnicking, field sports, swimming, and pond fishing. Facilities: bathrooms, food concessions, picnic tables.
There is a daily parking fee in season. Gates are open on weekends only from the third Saturday in April until Memorial Day, 8 a.m. to sunset. From Memorial Day to October 31st, they are open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Campsite fees are charged separately.

Bull's Covered Bridge River Walk

Bull's Bridge Road Kent, CT

A scenic part of the Appalachian Trail. Hikers can enjoy the Bull's Bridge Scenic Trail loop, featuring views of waterfalls and gorges down below on the Housatonic River. The covered bridge itself was built in 1842, and is one of the few in New England still open to auto traffic. The trail follows the Housatonic River to Ten Mile River Gorge, and then up to the top of Ten Mile Hill.

Burr Pond State Park

Route 8 Torrington, CT Phone: 860-482-1817

Visitors can enjoy hiking and cross-country ski trails, a seasonal ice skating pond, boating, and various nature programs. There is an admission fee.

Campbell Falls

Route 272 Norfolk, CT

Cascading waters are the centerpiece of this park, which features fishing, hiking trails and picnic areas.

Dennis Hill State Park

State Route 272 Norfolk, CT

The centerpiece of this park is a view at 1,627 feet. Hiking and cross-country skiing trails, picnicking areas. The park features the Romantic Ramble trail, a trip to a gazebo where a lazy picnic can be enjoyed. In addition, hikers can amble up to the top of Dennis hill for a panoramic view of three states.

Flanders Nature Center

Flanders Road Woodbury, CT Phone: 203-263-3711

Open: Monday - Saturday, 9 am - 5 pm

Many special programs are scheduled here. Visitors can enjoy nature walks that feature wildflowers (seasonal), a bog and an arboretum made up of nut trees. The Center's trail house features nature exhibits and a gift shop.

H.C. Barnes Nature Center

175 Shrub Road Bristol, CT Phone: 860-589-6082

Open: Wed - Fri, 2 - 5 pm; Sat 9 am - 5 pm; Sun 1 -5 pm

This nature center features a variety of self-guiding trails, as well as interpretive exhibits and a nature library. The 70 acre sanctuary is home to a variety of species.

Haystack Mountain

State Route 272 Norfolk, CT

At the summit of this 1,716 foot peak is a 34 foot high tower. A half-mile trail leads visitors from the parking lot to the tower, from which Long Island Sound, the Berkshires and New York State can be seen.

Hetzel Refuge

Breakneck Hill Middlebury, CT Phone: 203-263-3711

This pristine, wooded refuge sits on 66 acres and offers prime observation areas for both birds and animals. Hiking trails wend their way through almost the entire site.

Hop Brook Dam Park

Route 63 Naugatuck, CT

Set along a dam, this lake park features picnic areas, swimming, and the Larkin Bridle Trail, used for hiking, cross country skiing and horse trail riding.

Housatonic Meadows State Park

Route 7 Sharon, CT Phone: 860-927-3238

Along the banks of the Housatonic River, this park features fly-fishing, hiking and cross-country skiing trails, canoeing and a public camping site.

Huntington State Park

Sunset Hill Road Redding, CT Phone: 860-424-3200

State park has trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, fresh water fishing and picnic areas.

Jacksons Cove Park

Lake Zoar Oxford, CT

This small lakeside park features both swimming and boating areas, as well as scenic hikes around the lake.

John A. Minetto State Park

Route 272 Torrington, CT

Set on the site of the one of the first homes built in the area, this park has fishing and swimming areas, as well as sports fields, picnic areas and trails for hiking and cross-country skiing.

Kent Falls State Park

Route 7 Kent, CT Phone: 860-927-3238

One of the most visually stunning places in Connecticut, Kent Falls features a 200-foot, cascading waterfall. Along the falls visitors can utilize a staired path which allows views from top to bottom. The park also has picnic areas, hiking trails and fishing areas. There is a charge for admission on weekends and holidays.

Kettletown State Park

Off I-84 at Exit 15 Southbury, CT Phone: 203-264-5169

Visitors can enjoy nature programs, fishing, hiking trails (including one for the handicapped), swimming and picnic areas. Campers can rent a site in the park. The name Kettletown comes from the history of the parkland: Settlers purchased the territory from the natives for the price of one brass kettle.

Lake McDonough Park

Route 219 Barkhamsted, CT

This park on the lake features rentals of row boats and paddleboats, as well as fishing areas and hiking trails.

Lake Waramaug State Park

Route 45 New Preston, CT Phone: 860-868-2592

Park is set entirely on the lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, scuba diving, fishing, boat rentals, sports fields, hiking trails and more. In season nature programs are scheduled. A 78 site camping area is available for a fee.

Lake Zoar

Route 34 Newtown, CT

Visitors to Lake Zoar will find the lake hospitable to boaters and swimmers. The area also has trails for both hiking and mountain biking.

Little-Laurel Lime Ridge Park

Off Route 334 Seymour, CT

This park offers visitors scenic views to enjoy while engaging in vigorous, often challenging hiking trails. Bike trails are also available.

Macedonia Brook State Park

CT State Route 342 Kent, CT Phone: 860-927-3238

Park set on 2,300 acres. Trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, fishing, sports fields, camping. Views of the Taconic and Catskill Mountains.

Mattatuck Forest

Thomaston Road Thomaston, CT

A section of the Blue Trail runs through the forest, open to hikers only.

Mine Hill Preserve

Mine Hill Road Roxbury, CT

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the preserve is set on a former iron ore mine and blast furnace. Granite quarries on the property provided stones used in the building of the Brooklyn Bridge and Grand Central Station in New York City. A looping trail of under 4 miles will take hikers along the Donkey Trail (where donkeys used to pull ore wagons), past mine shafts and tunnels, and old mine and furnace foundations. Side trails will take hikers to the granite quarries.

Mohawk State Park

Route 4 Cornwall, CT Phone: 860-927-3238

Mohawk State Park features 1,683 foot Mohawk Mountain. The Mohawk trail is available for hiking, there are cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling, fishing and picnic areas. There is a charge for skiing.

Mount Tom State Park

Route 202 Litchfield, CT Phone: 860-567-8870

Mount Tom rises to a height of 1,325. At the top of the mountain, hikers can reach the notable stone tower. While hiking the mountain is a popular activity at the park, visitors can also enjoy swimming, stocked fishing ponds, sail and row-boating, scuba diving and ice skating. Activities include paddling, picnicking, fishing, scuba diving, hiking, Swimming, canoe and kayak rentals. Facilities: bathrooms, concession, change houses. There are separate weekend, holiday. and weekday parking fees at Mount Tom State Park.

Naugatuck State Forest

Lewis Street Naugatuck, CT

This state forest is completely undeveloped, and offers challenging hiking experiences for the non-beginner.

Northfield Dam

Route 254 Thomaston, CT

Recreational area features fishing, biking trails, picnic areas with shelters and swimming.

Osbornedale State Park

Hawthorne Avenue Derby, CT

State park features fishing areas, winter ice skating and cross-country skiing, hiking trails and a picnic area.

Peoples State Forest

East River Road Barkhamsted, CT Phone: 860-379-2469

Along the Farmington River, this forest features hunting areas, fishing areas, hiking and cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling, and sports fields. Of particular interest is the Mathies Grove picnic area, set among great pines that are over 2 centuries old. Hiking trails include the Beaver Swamp Loop, which leads visitors past the remains of 18th and 19th century charcoal pits and ancient Indian villages, as well as the ruins of a colonial home. Another trail also forks off to the site of an ancient Indian soapstone quarry. A campground is also available.

Peterson Park

Mad River Road Wolcott, CT

This park is home to the beginning of the Mattatuck trail, a 35 mile hike that wends its way up to Mohawk Mountain, in the Litchfield Hills.

Pierrepont State Park

Route 116 Ridgefield, CT Phone: 203-431-2577

State park with picnic areas, fishing, hiking and cross-country ski trails and ice skating.

Putnam Memorial State Park

Route 58 Bethel, CT Phone: 203-566-2305

This historic park has facilities for picnicking, hiking and cross-country skiing trails and a pond for ice skating.

Saugatuck Valley Hiking Trail System

Route 53 Redding, CT Phone: 203-958-2551

Open: Year round

Over 65 miles of hiking trails wend their way through Redding, Easton and Weston. Hikers will pass historic and natural sites, including the view from a 200 foot cliff overlooking a reservoir. A permit is required, and available -- along with maps -- at the Redding Town Clerk's office.

Sharon Audubon Center

325 Cornwall Bridge Road / Route 4 Sharon, CT 06069 Phone: 860-364-0520

Nature trails meander through gardens, woods and around ponds. Exhibits include a children’s discovery room, live animals and natural history. A gift shop and book store can also be found in the museum.
Hours: The Visitors Center and Nature Store are open year round, Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. The building is closed on all major holidays. Fee charged.

Southford Falls State Park

Quaker Farms Road Oxford, CT Phone: 203-264-5169

State park features fishing, hiking trails, sports fields, plus cross country skiing and ice skating in the wintertime.

Squantz Pond State Park

Route 39 New Fairfield, CT Phone: 860-424-3200

This year-round recreation area features a boating and swimming area, fishing, ice skating, hiking and cross-country ski trails, and picnic areas.

The Pratt Center

163 Papermill Road New Milford, CT Phone: 860-355-3137

Nature preserve with hiking trails and river walks. There are also special programs scheduled throughout the year, and live farm animals on the premises in the spring, summer and fall.

Thomaston Dam

Hill Road, Route 22 Thomaston, CT

Open: Year-round, daily

Visitors to this recreational area can enjoy trails for hiking and motor bikes, as well as picnic areas.

Topsmead Park

Buell Road Litchfield, CT Phone: 860-567-5694

Topsmead is an English tudor mansion set on 511 acres. During the summer the house is open for tours. The grounds are open year-round and feature hiking, sledding, cross country skiing, as well as picnic areas.

White Memorial Conservation Center and Museum

Route 202 Litchfield, CT Phone: 860-567-0857

Open: Year-round, daily

Sanctuary set on 4,000 acres features 35 miles of trails, including a wooden boardwalk through wetland areas. The sanctuary museum examines the flora and fauna on the property more closely. Visitors can also enjoy the gift shop. A 3.1 mile trail is ideal for the novice and nature lover, and takes visitors alongside the Bantam River and along a 1.2 mile wooden boardwalk that will take you through a large portion of the sanctuary's wetlands.

Woodcock Nature Center

56 Deer Run Road Ridgefield, CT Phone: 203-762-7280

Set on 146 acres, the nature center has numerous walking and hiking trails. The area offers great opportunities for birdwatching and observation of geology. Regular walks and programs are scheduled throughout the year. Gift shop on the premises.
Mystic/Eastern top of listings

Albert E. Moss Forest

Junction of Routes 195 and 275 Mansfield, CT

This wildlife sanctuary is used as an outdoor laboratory by the University of Connecticut. Open to the general public.

Barn Island State Wildlife Management Area

Palmer Neck Road Stonington, CT

The 1,013-acre Barn Island Wildlife Management Area is the State's single largest coastal property managed for wildlife conservation. The property provides a diversity of ecoysystem and habitats including hilly uplands, agricultural/open fields, mixed hardwood forests and salt, brackish and freshwater tidal wetlands. The site is a popular hiking, wildlife observation and hunting area. Deer hunting is allowed in-season at this site. Nearly 4 miles of trails are available at this site.

Bigelow Hollow State Park

Route 171 Union, CT Phone: 860-684-3430

Bigelow Hollow State Park and the adjoining Nipmuck State Forest offer over 9,000 acres of recreation opportunities including miles of hiking trails and an 18-acre pond in Eastern Connecticut. Activities include boating, picnicking, cross country skiing, pond fishing, hiking, scuba diving, hunting (forest only), and snowmobiling. There are boat launches at Bigelow Pond and Mashapaug Lake. There is a parking fee of $9 to $15 weekends and holidays in season.

Bluff Point Coastal Reserve / Bluff Point State Park

Depot Road, off US Route 1 Groton, CT Phone: 860-444-7591

Bluff Point Coastal Reserve offers the visitor a delightful mixture of wooded hiking and biking trails coupled with spectacular wildlife viewing on Long Island Sound. Activities include hiking, saltwater fishing, mountain biking, shell fishing. A permit is required for shell fishing. Permits are issued by the Town of Groton. Town offices are located at Route 1 and Depot Road. Telephone: 860-441-6600. No fee to park.

Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center

109 Pequotsepos Road Mystic, CT 06355 Phone: 860-536-1216

Open: Year-round, Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed January 1, Easter, Christmas

Discover live owls, turtles, frogs, and snakes in new natural history exhibits. Experience "A Night in the Meadow" theatre, hike up to 8 miles of trails on beautiful 300-acre sanctuary, and view birds of prey in outdoor flight enclosures. Excellent birding; picnic areas; wildflowers; gift shop. Open daily. Adults $6, Children $4.

Dennis Farm

Dennis Road Pomfret, CT

The Nature Conservancy maintains this 2 mile trail, available for hiking or skiing.

Fenton-Ruby Park and Wildlife Preserve

Burma Road Willington, CT

This nature preserve and park offers ample opportunity for wildlife observation and bird-watching. A one mile, marked trail runs through the preserve.

Harkness Memorial State Park

275 Great Neck Road / State Route 213 Waterford, CT 06385 Phone: 860-443-5725

This beachfront park on Long Island Sound, site of a former mansion is home to an unusual historic and beautiful experience. Enjoy a garden of heliotropes, bred from the plants grown on the site over a century ago.
Hours: 8 a.m.-sunset. Mansion is open for tours weekends and holidays from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day. The first tour starts at 10 a.m. and the last at 2:15 p.m. Fees for parking.

James L. Goodwin Forest

Route 6 Hampton, CT

2002 acre conservation center with displays representing different types of woodlands. The conservancy also has fishing areas, cross-country skiing, hiking trails and a rest area.

Laurel Sanctuary

Route 190 Union, CT

Leisurely walking trails wind through the laurel. This is best in June and July, when the laurel is in bloom.

Lester B. Williams Memorial Forest

Herrick Road Brooklyn, CT

1.5 mile trail, marked and maintained by the Eastern CT Forest Landowners Association. A map for this circular route is available in the mailbox at the start of the trail.

Mansfield Hollow Park

Bassetts Bridge Road Mansfield, CT

Small park set on a 500 acre lake. Boating and fishing are allowed. The park is also available for hiking and cross-country skiing.

Mashamoquet Brook State Park

147 Wolf Den Drive Pomfret Center, CT Phone: 860-928-6121

Popular state park with facilities for camping, swimming, boating and a rest area with a food concession. Hiking trails and fishing areas are also available. There is a weekend/holiday parking fee of $9 to $15 and a campsite fee at Mashamoquet State Park.
Wolf Den Campground, 35 open sites. Bathrooms, showers, dumping station. Fishing, hiking, swimming nearby. No pets.
Mashamoquet Brook Campground, 20 wooded sites. Dumping station nearby. Fishing, hiking, swimming nearby. No pets. Open April through September.

Milo Appley Showcase Nature Trail

Wolf Den Road, off Route 6 Brooklyn, CT

This 1.5 mile trail wends its way through a nature conservancy at an easy pace.

Mohegan State Forest

Route 97 Scotland, CT

395 acre forest with hiking trails and hunting.

Moosup Valley State Park Trail

River Street, off Route 14 Plainfield, CT

This trail runs for 8 miles along the bed of an old railroad. The walk will take you to the Rhode Island border.

Natchaug State Forest

Pilfershire Road Eastford, CT Phone: 860-928-6121

Natchaug State Forest on Natchaug River is popular for its horse trails, outstanding fishing, and riverfront picnic sites. Of historic interest is a large stone fireplace and chimney that are the remains of the birthplace of General Nathaniel Lyon, the first Union general killed in the Civil War. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, hunting, backpack camping, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The Natchaug River is a designated trout park fishing area. Facilities include picnic tables and pit toilets.

Nathan Hale Forest

South Street, off Route 31 Coventry, CT

This state forest sits on 1219 acres close to the homestead of the legendary Revolutionary War hero Nathan Hall. Hiking, fishing and hunting are available there.

Nipmuck State Forest

Route 190 Union, CT

This forest is farmed for products. Hiking trails with hunting permitted.

Old Furnace State Park

Route 6 East Killingly, CT

This small state park sits on the site of an iron mill built in the 18th century. Fishing is available in nearby Ross Pond, as well as several hiking trails.

Pomfret Farms

220 Day Road Pomfret, CT

Maintained by the Audobon Society. Designated trails run throughout the property. The Audobon Society sponsors guided birdwalks and workshops on gardening and area wildlife.

Pudding Hill Wildlife Area

Route 97 Scotland, CT

Wildlife area with fishing, hiking and small game hunting.

Quaddick State Park

East Putnam Road Thompson, CT Phone: 860-928-9200

Popular fishing and swimming area also features boating, hiking trails, and a rest area with food concession. Admission fee on weekends and holidays.

Quinebaug's 5 Mile River Trail

Route 6, Main Street Killingly, CT

Take a one mile trail that winds along two rivers.

Riverside Park

Riverside Drive, Route 12 North Grosvenordale, CT

A half mile looping trail by the French River. Lit for evening walks.

Rock Spring Wildlife Refuge

Route 97 Scotland, CT

Walking trails, hiking trails and cross-country skiing along the Little River.

Rocky Neck State Park

244 West Main Street (Route 156) East Lyme, CT Phone: 860-739-5471

The large stone pavilion, diverse trail systems, and gently sloping beach make this park ideal for families. Try crabbing or fishing. Look for hawks, cranes, and herons. Activities include camping, picnicking, hiking, saltwater fishing, interpretive programs, saltwater swimming. Facilities include bathrooms, food concession, pavilion, and picnic tables. Rocky Neck Campground offers 160 sites in both open and wooded settings. The camping season begins in May and ends September 30.
From Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day there are separate weekend/holiday and weekday parking fees. On weekends from April 17 through May 23 and again from September 11 through September 26, the weekday rate for parking will be in effect. There is also a camping fee at Rocky Neck State Park.

Roseland Park

Roseland Park, off Route 169 Woodstock, CT Phone: 860-963-7690

This park has been an area favorite almost since it was opened in 1876. Hiking trails run through the park, which has an admission fee on the weekends.

Schoolhouse Brook Park

Clover Mill Road, off Route 195 Mansfield, CT

18 trails (for walking or cross-country skiing) around Bicentennial Pond. The park is maintained by the town of Mansfield.

Shelter Falls Park

Birch Road Mansfield, CT

This wooded trail takes a somewhat rocky path that meanders past two waterfalls.

Trail Wood

Kenyon Road Hampton, CT

This farm was owned by naturalist and author Edwin Way Teale. There are many nature programs held at the site, as well as three miles of trails for walking.

Trolley Trail and Two Rivers Trail

Cady Lane Plainfield, CT

These one mile trails are terrific locales for bird watching. The trails are on the site of the Quinebaug Valley Trout Hatchery.

West Thompson Dam Recreation Area

Route 12 Thompson, CT

Fishing, hiking, boating and hunting are all a popular attraction for this federally maintained reservoir.

Wolf Den Trail

Mashamoquet Brook State Park, Route 44 Pomfret, CT

These trails have a historic significance: They lead to the spot where it is believed Revolutionary hero General Israel Putnam killed the last wolf in Connecticut.

Yale Forest

Route 197 Union, CT

Yale University uses this forest for study and field work. Fishing is available in the forest. The blue-marked Nipmuck trail runs through the forest for hiking.
New Haven/South Central top of listings

Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center

10 Deerfield Lane Ansonia, CT 06401 Phone: 203-736-1053

One hundred-acre nature preserve, with several gardens featuring ferns and wildflowers. Of particular note is the butterfly and hummingbird garden. Natural exhibits and programs are scheduled throughout the year. Over two miles of trails run through the preserve for hiking and cross-country skiing. Visitors can also enjoy a fishing pond, picnic areas and a gift shop.
Hours: Sunup to sundown. Office and interpretive center open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except holidays. Free admission.

Chatfield Hollow State Park

Route 80 Killingworth, CT Phone: 860-566-2304

A 375 acre wooded hollow, featuring fascinating caves and rocky ledges. Visitors here will enjoy fishing, winter ice-skating, hiking trails and swimming. There are a telephone and restrooms on the site. An Admission fee is charged to enter the park.

East Rock Park

East Rock Road New Haven, CT Phone: 203-946-6086

Open: Daily, sunrise to sunset

This park offers a nature trails, playgrounds, recreational areas, a bird sanctuary, and a spectacular view of Long Island Sound.

Edgerton Park

75 Cliff Street at Whitney Avenue New Haven, CT 06511

Beautiful history

Once an experimental mulberry orchard, this stately public park was the home of Eli Whitney, inventor of the cotton gin. Bought in 1906 by the Brewster family, the stately mansion stood near the great lawn of an estate designed to replicate an English landscape garden. Now a city park hosting many public cultural events.
Hours: Open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year. The conservatory is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. every day except major holidays.

Edgewood Park

Edgewood Avenue New Haven, CT Phone: 203-946-8028

Enjoy nature walks around the duck pond, tennis courts, basketball courts and a ranger station. The park is also the site of the Holocaust Memorial and the Spanish American War monument.

Farmington Canal Trail

Brookvale Park Hamden, CT Phone: 203-785-1482

Part of an 80 mile canal trail between New Haven and Massachusetts, this five and a half mile trail is available to bikers and hikers.

Hammonasset Beach State Park

1288 Boston Post Road Madison, CT Phone: 203-245-2785

Connecticut's largest shoreline park offers over two miles of beach to enjoy swimming, strolling along the boardwalk, or just relaxing in the sun and surf. Activities include saltwater swimming, fishing, picnicking, hiking, fishing, paddling, bicycling, and camping. The Meigs Point Nature Center offers programs and activities for park visitors on a limited year round basis.
Facilities: Bathrooms, boardwalk, car top boat launch, concessions, nature center, picnic shelters, picnic tables, showers. Park fees: Weekends, $20 for Connecticut residents and $30 for non-residents; weekday fees are $14 and $20. All days, $10 after 4 p.m. Hammonasset offers over 550 grassy campsites. Open for the season from May 21 through October 30 (203-245-1817).

Lighthouse Point Park

Lighthouse Road New Haven, CT Phone: 203-946-8005

Open: Memorial Day - Labor Day, 6 pm - sunset

This 82 acre park on Long Island Sound features exhibits on natural history, swimming areas, nature trails, a bird sanctuary and an antique carousel. There is a parking fee.

Sleeping Giant State Park

Hamden, CT

Hiking and fishing are the main reasons to visit this park. Picnic areas.

Wadsworth Falls State Park

Route 157 Middlefield, CT Phone: 860-566-2304

285 acre park with a waterful and laurel groves. Picnic areas, fishing, hiking and cross-country ski trails, swimming are all available to visitors. The park also has toilet facilities and telephones. There as a daily admission charge to enter.

West Rock Ridge Park

Hamden, CT

Small state park with fishing area and hiking and cross country ski trails.