by Alexander Darracott

Created on: February 23, 2009   Last Updated: March 05, 2009

The Appalachian Trial

A rough, hilly terrain, covering 60 miles of the Litchfield Hills. Strong walking boots are advisable. Cornwall bridge built in 1837 is viewable along the way, as well as various pubs and inns where travellers can stay for the night. Campers are also catered for in Housatonic Meadows State Park. A map and trial guide is available from the Appalachian Trial Conference.

The Metacomet Trail

Fifty one miles of rugged terrain; good walking boots are strongly advisable. Delights include: waterfalls and lakes, summits of Talcott Mountains and Hanging Hill, and Castle Craig and Heublien Tower. More information about the trail has been published in the Connecticut Walk Book.

Sleeping Giant State Park

Covering a 30 mile area, suitable for all walkers with just a good pair of walking boots. Observation tower along the trail offers excellent views of the surrounding area. More information and trail guides are available on the SPGA and CT Park websites.

Quinnipiac Trail

Running for 23 miles through the Quinnipiac River State Park, the walk is fairly hilly and rough but not too difficult for the average walker. The trial is connected to the Sleeping Giant State Park, as well as the stunning Turners Pond Dam. There are no guide books available, but is described further in the Connecticut Walk Book.

The Tunxis Trial

Strong walking boots along with a good strong stick or pole is required to climb the slopes as this 53 mile trail is described as a wet area. Not recommended for beginners. Southington region offers stunning views. A guide book can be downloaded from the Connecticut Forest and Park Association website.

Naugatuck Trail

A 10 mile trail accessible for all walkers, though the terrain can quite wet so a pair of wellington boots would be advisable. Beacon Cup and Straitsville Brook offer lovely scenery. Details on the trail can be found in AMC's Best Day Hikes in Connecticut, along with information on many other hikes.

Regicides Trail,

A shorter trail, lasting about 7 miles within the vicinity and view of the West Rock Ridge State park. Judges' Cave is found at the end of the 7 mile trail, which has historical significance. The terrain can be fairly rocky and requires careful footing. Strong boots are therefore required. Further information on the trail can be found on the Connecticut Forest and Park Association website.

Mattabesset Trail

Eighty miles of rugged, grassy and sometimes wet terrain; strong boots or wellingtons are advisable. Very suitable for walkers of all levels. Hemlock Brook and Land Pond Dam are lovely places to visit along the trail. A guide to the trial can be available through the official website:

Monadock-Sunapee Greenway

Running 50 miles in length; varied terrain, suitable for a variety of walkers. Walkers will be treated to views of Mt. Monadock, Anadorra Forest, and the delights of Pillsbury State Park. No special clothing is required. A guide to this trial can be found on the Monadock Sunapree Greenway Trial Club website.

Shoreline Greenway Trial

Runs 22 miles through grassy, smooth terrain and woodlands; developed for all types of walkers, so no special equipment is required. Walkers shall be treated to excellent coastal views, as well as opportunities to enjoy nearby parks and join up with other trails discussed above. A full guide can be found on the official website.

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