Hikes can be super fun experiences, but not everyone wants to spend their whole day sweating and trekking uphill. If you love the idea of getting out and exploring nature, but don't necessarily want to sweat through your shirt, then these hikes are for you. With this list, there are no more excuses! Get out there and see the sights on the 10 best 5 mile hikes in Connecticut. They're some of the best hikes in Connecticut.

1. Millington Trail (Devil's Hopyard)

Tucked in Devil's Hopyard State Park, this 2.7-mile loop offers stunning views in addition to offering a moderate workout. The gorgeous trail boasts a cascading waterfall that's just as stunning when it's frozen in the winter. Pups are permitted on the trail, as long as they remain on a leash. Read more about Devil's Hopyard State Park.

2. Mattabesett Trail (Giufridda Park)

At just under two miles, this hike is quick but has a lot of ups and downs. The view you'll get of Hartford is a great reward though. If you're up for a lot more hiking, this is just a portion of a much longer trail. The full Mattabesett Trail in Connecticut spans nearly 61 miles and will take you through Guildford, Haddam, Wallingford, and Berlin. Learn more about Guiffrida Park in our previous article.

3. Mine Hill Preserve (Roxbury)

You'll pass abandoned ruins on this easy trail that clocks in at just under four miles. Drink in the beauty of colorful, blossoming wildflowers in the spring, and listen to the sound of the waterfall tumbling down. Just be forewarned that the trail can get muddy after a rainfall and in the winter months. Learn why this

trail in Connecticut is one for your bucket list.

4. Farm River State Park (East Haven)

All of the trails in this park are short, which means they're perfect for beginners and folks who like to see pretty things without working too hard. The Farm River State Park Trail, for example, spans a single mile, but that mile is jam-packed with the beauty - from river views to lush green forest. Discover why this short-but-sweet trail is one of the best hikes in Connecticut.

5. Housatonic River Walk (South Kent)

This 4.8-mile section of the Appalachian Trail is perfect for a lazy Sunday stroll because nearly the entire stretch is flat. If you're a fan of birds, bring along a pair of binoculars as the area is extremely popular with birdwatchers. Much of your hike, which you can begin in Kent or in Cornwall, will follow the river.

6. River’s Edge Loop (Washington)

Trace the curves of the beautiful Shepaug River for three miles on this beginner's trail. The trail, in fact, leads to an abandoned tunnel that dates back to the mid-20th century. Don't forget your camera, because you'll be treated to stellar views along the trail that predominately follows alongside the river. Head over to the official website of Steep Rock Preserve for more information.

7. Indian Council Caves Trail (Barkhamsted)

At just under five miles, Indian Council Caves Trail is an out-and-back trail that meanders through Enders State Forest. The trail leads to Indian Caves, local wildlife, and beautiful views. You probably won't want to forget your camera or your smartphone on this trail. Take a peek to learn why this is one of the best short hikes in Connecticut.

8. Devil's Den (Weston)

This is a unique opportunity because the intersecting trails allow you to dictate how long your hike is. The preserve trail loop comes in at 5.2 miles, but if you switch from one trail to another you could make it as short as a mile. While these trails are absolutely stunning in all four seasons, they're also one of the best winter hikes in Connecticut.

9. Little Pond Trail (White Memorial Conservation Center)

This super easy 1.2-mile walk lets you follow a boardwalk around a lake. Perfect for bringing little ones. You'll cross over the Bantam River at two points. It's one of those trails you really want to experience in each season, Spring, for example, means blossoming wildflowers while fall offers the chance to watch migrating birds. Learn more about this kid-friendly trail in Connecticut.

10. Steep Rock Loop (Steep Rock Preserve)

This land trust trail runs four miles long and is designed to let you explore the natural beauty of the park. Visit the official website of Steep Rock Preserve for more information. (You'll also find a link to the trail map. Just click on it to start planning your adventure.)

What do you say? Is one of these hikes under 5 miles in Connecticut in your future? Or have you already hiked one of them? Let us know in the comments! Do you know what also goes well with a hike? Waterfalls! Here are 10 short (but sweet!) waterfall hikes in Connecticut that will take under an hour.