Ever dreamed about heading out with nothing but a treasure map and a shovel and managing to find hidden buried treasure? Sadly, we can't promise you a chest filled with jewels and gold coins. Even so, we can definitely tell you about one of the best places to dig up your own fun! There aren't many public gem mines in Connecticut, but we do have the Salmon River State Forest. There are plenty of hikes and other great recreational opportunities in this beautiful state forest, but it's also part of the Connecticut garnet trail.

You may be familiar with garnets because they are the January birthstone. This gorgeous red beauty of a gem is known as a symbol of strength and empowerment. Is it any wonder that the garnet is also the official state mineral of Connecticut?

The Connecticut garnet trail is not a literal trail or hike, but a series of spots that mineralogists have chosen where garnet is fairly common. You can actually find garnet all over the state, but the spots along the garnet trail represent some of the best places to find geodes in Connecticut.

State trails such as the Connecticut wine trail, chocolate trail, and pizza trails are great for finding hidden gems in the form of little-known restaurants and destinations. But if you want the real hidden gems, you'll want to check out the Connecticut garnet trail.

One of the very best places along the garnet trail to dig up these beautiful rocks is along the Salmon River. Right next to the riverbed along the historic Comstock Bridge is a particularly wonderful spot.

While you're in the area, make sure to check out the Comstock Pedestrian Bridge. It's one of only three covered bridges in Connecticut.

This historic bridge is always worth a visit just to walk through and marvel at its simple, yet beautiful, architecture.

If you want to do even more than dig for garnets while you're visiting Salmon River State Forest, there are plenty of other opportunities for fun here.

You'll find lots of chances to get back in touch with nature, such as hiking, fishing, or enjoying a picnic along the river.

The Connecticut garnet trail will take you all over the Nutmeg State. Even if you don't manage to dig up any gems, you're sure to end up with a treasure load of great memories!

Did you know about the Connecticut garnet trail? You can learn more about all the stops on this great adventure from the Connecticut Geological Survey website. Please note that collecting minerals on state property is prohibited - please leave any gems you find for all to enjoy!