You have to admit that Connecticut is loaded with natural beauty. From shoreline to inland, there's much to see and these easy warm-weather hikes will take you to some beautiful, yet lesser-known places across the state. Here are the 11 best hikes in Connecticut to take during the summer. You'll enjoy exploring these trails all season long.
1. Trolley Trail, Branford
This little trail is just over a mile long and has an amazing end view of the shoreline. You'll also cross a river and be treated to views of coastal wildlife. Come see why the Trolley Trail in Branford is one of the best hikes in Connecticut! Explore this short trail at W. Point Rd., Branford, CT 06405.
2. Bailey's Ravine at Ayer Gap, North Franklin
This 2.7-mile loop trail features an incredible waterfall. Enjoy the quiet wooded setting as you travel along this scenic path. You can find
Bailey's Ravine at 291 Pond Rd., North Franklin, CT 06254.
3. Shadow Lake, Ridgefield
This 3/4-mile loop trail circles a hidden lake with wonderful water views. Stop and enjoy a picnic on the tiny peninsula that juts out into the water. Find Shadow Lake Trail at 176 Shadow Lake Rd, Ridgefield, CT 06877.
4. West Hartford Reservoir Trail #6, West Hartford
This 3.8-mile loop trail around the reservoir is perfect for a summer day. The flat terrain makes it an easy trip for kids, dogs, strollers, and everyone else. Enjoy the West Hartford Reservoir Trail at 2900 Albany Ave., West Hartford, CT 06117.
5. Natchaug State Forest CCC Loop, Ashford
You'll be treated to the gurgling sounds of the river and the picturesque views that go along with it while hiking this trail. The CCC Loop is 3.5 miles round trip through an enchanting forested setting. You can find the
Natchaug State Forest on Rte. 198, Eastford, CT 06242.
6. Quarry Park, Rocky Hill
You'll fall in love with the views on this scenic trail that is just over 2 miles long. The walk is pretty flat so you can enjoy a gentle pace. Quarry Park can be found at 34A Old Main St., Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
7. Bluff Point State Park, Groton
The Coastal Reserve Trail is a 3.6-mile loop with stunning views of coastal waterways. Experience the shoreline breezes along this serene hike. Enjoy this coastal gem at 55 Depot Rd., Groton, CT 06340.
8. Lake Wintergreen, New Haven
This simple trail in West Rock Ridge State Park is literally a walk in the park. Enjoy a scenic stroll around the 1.5-mile loop that skirts around Lake Wintergreen. This sweet trail can be found at 1134 Wintergreen Ave., New Haven, CT 06514.
9. Hop Brook Lake, Middlebury
This easy peasy trail is a 2.7-mile loop that features a beautiful lake. You can stop and take a dip to beat the heat during the summer. You'll find the Hop Brook Dam Loop at 4 Straits Tpke.,
Middlebury, CT 06762.
10. Nonnewaug Falls, Bethlehem
This shady trail through the forest has charming stream and waterfall views. The hike is just a little over a mile and you can find it off of Falls Rd., Bethlehem, CT 06751. Don't skip over the Nonnewaug Falls Trail!
11. Tyler Mill, Wallingford
The Tyler Mill Run Trail is a charming 2.5-mile loop trail that meanders through the woods. You'll be treated to the serenade of the local frogs as you journey along. You can find Tyler Mill at 1151 E. Center St., Wallingford, CT 06492.
Have you taken any of these easy summer hikes in Connecticut? Do you have a special summer trail that you are willing to share? Let us know in the comments section.
For even more easy hikes, try these inland boardwalk trails in Connecticut.
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