Connecticut hiking: 5 trails you should try

Connecticut offers hikers an array of options, from mountains to the sea. (Getty Images)

If Connecticut is the gateway to New England, its options for hiking fit the state well.

The Nutmeg State offers hikers an array of not-too-challenging options, while mixing in some more strenuous trails in the state’s northwest corner that offer hints of the hikes available in northern New England.

Beginner hikers can find trails that work nicely for them across the state, while veteran hikers will zero in on some of the more demanding routes.

We’ve identified five good options here.

MORE HIKING GUIDES: Maine | Mass. | New Hampshire| Rhode Island | Vermont

1. Hidden Valley Preserve, Washington

Difficulty: 3/5 | Trail info

Hidden Valley Preserve is more of a trail system than a trail itself — and with 17 miles of pet-friendly options to choose from, you’ve got several days of hiking available. The standouts are the Lookout and Pinnacle overlooks and the Thoreau Bridge, which stretches 134 feet across the Shepaug River and includes quotes from the man himself.

Nothing here is strenuous, but it’s not super hard to get lost either. Winters Hunger Pinnacle trail is over 7 miles and climbs nearly 1,000 feet, so pay attention to trail markers and plan accordingly with food and water. Also, look for the old quartz quarry near the park’s northern side.

2. Spruce Brook Falls, Beacon Falls

Difficulty: 3/5 | Trail info

With a total distance of fewer than 2 miles, this little gem of a trail makes you work for your views. The terrain never gets too high, but it’s an up-and-down adventure from start to finish. It’s worth it, though, as this trail is known as one of the top scenic hiking trails in the area.

What’s cool about this trail is that it rewards you with a gorgeous waterfall that’s sliced a hole out of deep rock, and you get all of this natural beauty without being far from the Metro-North rails and Route 8. Hemlock trees quickly absorb the sounds of civilization and leave you in isolation.

While this trail is dog friendly, you must always ensure it’s on a leash.

3. Mamacoke Island, Waterford

Difficulty: 1/5 | Trail info

Though technically a peninsula and not an island, Mamacoke Island offers some unique views in this small state. The south side of Mamacoke provides a selection of flat, rocky ledges from which you can view the Thames River and surrounding coastline.

With 2.5 miles of trail to explore, this is an easy loop that can be completed in under an hour and climbs around 220 feet. An enormous bedrock dome in the center of the island features outcroppings and ledges that make for some fantastic exploring.

No dogs are allowed, but this is an excellent spot for hikers of different ages.

4. Lion’s Head,  Salisbury

Difficulty: 4/5 | Trail info

Lion’s Head sits in the northwestern corner of Connecticut, a stone’s throw from both Massachusetts and New York. This 4.1-mile out-and-back hike leads you to a stunning overlook just north of Lion’s Head peak. This is undoubtedly one of the state’s best overlooks, bringing you up to 1,738 feet elevation.

Most of the trail is not that strenuous. It’s the last, brief climb up Lion’s Head that’s likely to get you breathing hard. From the top, you’ll see Washinee Lake into New York, the Salisbury Twin Lakes, and other surrounding mountains. There’s not much in the way of man-made enterprise blocking your view, either.

This hike is relatively remote, so crowds are manageable. You can bring your dog, but be sure to use a leash.

5. Lantern Hill, North Stonington

Difficulty: 3/5 | Trail info

Lantern Hill is one of those fabulous trails that gets your heart pumping, leaves the crowds behind, and doesn’t eat up your entire day. Head here any time of year, provided it’s a clear day, and you’ll be treated to views of Long Island Sound, Fishers and Long Islands, Rhode Island, and practically everything else in the surrounding area.

With 383 feet of climbing over 2.5 miles, most of the difficulty of this trail lies in its rocky footing. Wear the right shoes, and you’ll be fine. At the peak, you’ll get to observe Lantern Hill, a crag made of quartz and granite. The trail lies on the western side of this hill and is marked with red signs.

Dogs are allowed on a leash.