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| From the Mattabesett Trail viewpoint over Black Pond in Meriden, West Peak rises in the distance. The quarry on Chauncey Peak is visible to the right in this photo taken in December 2018. |
I like to visit a variety of places because get bored by doing the same hike over and over. Some area I have hiked, I never return because I did not find them to be interesting enough to warrant a second visit. These are places I enjoyed enough that I have return to them multiple times. These hikes are listed alphabetically by location name, not ranked by my preferences of which I think is a more desirable place to hike.
Some of the trails described in this guide are Blue-Blazed Trails managed by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA). The CFPA has an interactive map on its website that allows hikers to see an overview of the entire trail system with information about trail length and parking. Support CFPA by becoming a member because the trails don’t maintain themselves; the volunteers (with some help from a small staff and a summer trails crew) keeps the trails in good shape.
Interactive map: https://www.ctwoodlands.org/blue-blazed-hiking-trails/blue-blazed-hiking-trails-interactive-map
For other hiking areas managed by private organizations, pick one to support, so they can keep their trails maintained.
For state parks and forests, encourage the governor and your state representative and senator to properly fund state parks and forests (which are chronically underfunded and understaffed). You can also join the Friends of Connecticut State Parks, which advocates for the state parks, and, if one exists, a friends group for your favorite state park. Website: https://friendsctstateparks.org
For any of these areas, help out by becoming a trail maintainer yourself.
Disclaimer: The information presented here was believed to be accurate at the time it was posted in June 2020. Trails can change over time, including being closed, relocated, and blazed a different color. The website links were checked and working in June 2020. Some links were updated at that time because the previous links had been changed and were no longer valid. It is reasonable to assume that as organizations continue to update websites, links will change and old web addresses will not work. If a link does not work, just do a search for that trail or property to locate the current website.
The 64-mile Blue-Blazed Mattabesett Trail is one segment of the larger 215-mile New England Trail, a National Scenic Trail, which extends from the Long Island Sound in Guilford to Mount Monadonack in New Hampshire. The Mattabesett Trail is roughly U-shaped, looping from Meriden in the west to the Connecticut River in Middletown in the east. I have hiked this entire trail by section over time, and some sections like Guiffrida Park, I have hiked a number of times.
At the Berlin Turnpike (Route 15), the Mattabesett Trail ends at the 62.4-mile long Metacomet Trail, which extends north to the Massachusetts border. At this point the name changes to the Metacomet-Monadonock Trail, which extends north across the entire state of Massachusetts and into southern New Hampshire where it ends at Mount Monadonock. I plan to section hike the Metacomet Trail starting in fall 2020, and have certainly hiked many portions of it.
At the Broomstick Ledges Preserve in Guilford, the Mattabesett Trail intersects the 16.7-mile long Blue-Blazed Menunketuck Trail, which ends at Chittenden Park on the Long Island Sound. I have hiked much of this trail.
This page lists a series of hikes on the Mattabesett Trail, rather than listing them by county, as I did with other hikes on this website. This would be too confusing for the Mattabesett Trail, which cuts across three counties, mostly Middlesex and New Haven Counties with a small portion in Hartford County.
The hikes are listed from west to east:
· Mattabesett Trail: Giuffrida Park (Chauncey Peak and Lamentation Mountain), Meriden
· Mattabesett Trail: Tynan Park Middletown to Mount Higby
· Mattabesett Trail: Beseck Mountain. Meriden, Wallingford, Middlefield and Durham
· Mattabesett Trail: Bluff Head, Broomstick Ledges, Rockland Preserve and Braemore Preserve
· Mattabesett Trail: Mica Ledges to Mt. Pisgah, Madison and Durham
· Mattabesett Trail: Millers Pond State Park to the Cockaponset State Forest, including Bear Rock, Haddam and Durham
· Mattabesett Trail: Seven Falls Loop, Higganum (Haddam)
· Mattabesett Trail: Bear Hill Road to River Road, Middletown
· Mattabesett Trail: Asylum Reservoir Loop, Middletown
Mattabesett Trail: Giuffrida Park (Chauncey Peak and Lamentation Mountain), Meriden
· Starting Location/Parking: The parking lot for Giuffrida Park is located at 800 Westfield Road, Meriden. There are about 30 official parking spaces, which is small, given how much use this popular park receives. When the regular spots are full, people park on the lawn and along the entry road near the parking lot.
· Directions: Rt. 15 North to Exit 67 or I-91 North to Exit 16 (East Main St.). Continue straight at the light for about 2 miles on Bee St./Westfield Rd. The park entrance is on the left at the sharp curve just past the golf course. I-91 South to Exit 20 (Country Club Rd.) Turn left off the ramp, then right onto Country Club Rd. (becomes Westfield Rd.) for 2.3 miles. The unmarked park entrance is on the right at the sharp curve. From I-691, take Exit 12, Preston Ave. to Broad St./Rt. 5 North for 0.4 miles. Turn right on Westfield Rd. for 0.9 miles, and left for 0.2 miles to stay on Westfield Rd. The park entrance is on the left at the sharp turn just past the golf course.
· Map link: The Regional Council of Governments publishes the best map. Note that this map does not show the relocated section of the Mattabesett Trail as it ascends Chauncey Peak and descends off the back. The trail used to climb literally straight up the south face of the peak; now a switchback along the reservoir side brings hikers up to the top: http://scrcog.org/wp-content/uploads/trails/meriden/alt/RecTrails_ME1_Alt_6-2-16.pdf
The Meriden Land Trust map is hard to read: https://meridenlandtrust.files.wordpress.com/2018/06/giuffrida_quad.pdf
· GPS track: This is a GPS track of a 6.5-mile hike to Chauncey Peak and Lamentation Mountain. The hike can be shortened by not hiking as far north on the Mattabesett Trail on Lamentation Mountain.
· Why you should go: Views, views, and more views. Chauncey Peak provides excellent views to the east looking toward Mount Higby in Middlefield, to the south to Sleeping Giant and West Rock in Hamden, and to the west to the Bradley Hubbard Reservoir at the park, and West Peak, East Peak, and South Mountain in Meriden. Lamentation Mountain provides a series of views, mostly to the east and north, including the Compounce Ridge, Hartford, and the Berkshires.
· Trail Descriptions: The Blue-Blazed Mattabesett Trail over Chauncey Peak is a switchback climb to the top from the base of the reservoir near the parking lot, thanks to a relocation done by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association in Oct. 2016. The descent from the back of Chauncey Peak has also been converted to a swichback descent. The Mattabesett Trail, the Red Trail, and the Yellow Trail on Lamentation Mountain have good footing with a moderate climb to the top. The Mattabesett Trail out to Atkins Street in Middlefield crosses gently rolling terrain. The White Trail on the west side of Bradley Hubbard is generally a wide, gravel woods road with moderate changes in elevation. The trail along the east side of the reservoir (the side closer to Chauncey Peak) is a rocky walk with a couple of short scrambles. Although listed as White on the map, you are not likely to find blazes along the east side.
· Suggested Hike: For a 6.5 mile loop, from the parking lot, cross the lawn below the dam to reach the Mattabesett Trail. (If water is running over the trail, use the road to cross the stream). Follow the Blue Trail up to the switchback to the top of Chauncey Peak. Stop and enjoy the panoramic views from the top. Continue across the top to the back of Chauncey Peak and descend to lower ground. Cross the footbridge onto the White Trail, and turn right. Almost immediately turn left onto the Red Trail and walk along the slope of Lamentation Mountain.
At the Blue Trail, turn right and ascend Lamentation Mountain. Just past the Red Trail is the best overlook for a lunch break, although there will be others as you hike north. Continue north on the Blue Trail to the sign for the Berlin Land Trust. Turn around at this point and either follow the Blue Trail south, or follow the wide, unmarked woods roads that parallel the trail. When you read the Yellow Trail (the blaze is on the rock face and may be hard to see and will be hidden in snow) near the top of Lamentation Mountain, turn left and follow Yellow back to the White Trail near the reservoir. At the reservoir, follow the White Trail back to the parking lot. To make this a 4.5-mile loop, head back on the Yellow Trail when you see it heading north.
For a flatter hike, take the White Trail along the west side (Lamentation Mountain side) of the reservoir, and follow this to the Mattabesett Trail out to Atkins Street and return.
· Safety concerns: Hiking to Chauncey Peak is NOT recommended in wet and icy conditions due to the steep terrain, even with the switchbacks. The quarrying operation is close to the trail, so stay back from the edge. The “White” Trail along the east (Chauncey Peak) side of the reservoir is not recommended in wet and icy conditions due to uneven footing, along with a short rock scramble.
· Special considerations: Giuffrida Park is a popular location for dog walking, and dogs are often off leash, so be aware of this if you have a dog or are afraid of dogs.
· Trail sections to skip: From Atkins Street to where the Mattabesett Trail enters the woods off Country Club Road is 2.1 miles, of which 1.6 miles is a road walk, some of it on busy roads and much of it has loud road noise from nearby I-91.
Continuing north on the Mattabesett Trail on Lamentation Mountain near the Berlin town border, the trail descends steeply to Spruce Brook Road in 1.5 miles, then follows the road for another 0.7 miles and ends at Route 15 (the Berlin Turnpike) where the Metacomet Trail begins.
Mattabesett Trail: Tynan Park to Mount Higby, Middletown
· Why you should go: This hike lays out the western landscape at your feet withimpressive views from the top, including Chauncey Peak and the quarrying operation, West Peak and East Peak at Hubbard Park, and, alas, I-91 at your feet.
· Starting Location/Parking:Meet at Tynan Park, 199 Higby Rd., Middletown.While many people hike from the trailhead on Route 66, the better starting location is Tynan Park in Middletown because it skips a rough section of the trail from the peak down to the road, which is a steep descent with rough footing and plenty of road noise. The trailhead along Route 66 is often crowded.
· Directions: I-91, Exit 18 to Rt. 66 East for 3 miles. Left on Higby Rd. for 0.6 miles. Left into Tynan Park, opposite Sisk St. Rt. 9, Exit 15 to Rt. 66 West for 3.4 miles. Right on Higby Rd. for 0.6 miles. Left into Tynan Park, opposite Sisk St. Rt. 9, Exit 15 to Rt. 66 West for 3.4 miles.
· Map link: Map at https://newenglandtrail.org/get-on-the-trail/ct-net-section-12-mattabesett-trailand
Middletown Trail Guide (pages 14-15): http://www.middletownplanning.com/documents/MdtnTrails2016_2_23__Interactive.pdf
· Trail Descriptions: The trail travels over Higby Mountain with extensive views in most directions. Total elevation gain is 800 ft. of climbing. The major climb is from 0.4 to 2.3 miles (300 to 800 ft.). The second climb on Mt. Higby goes from mile 2.8 to 3.4 (600 to 730 ft. of elev.). Footing is generally good, except for loose trap rock, and some trail segments get close to the edge of cliffs. The Falls Brook crossing on the Tynan Park Connector is potentially challenging due to the lack of a bridge.
· Suggested Hike: This 7.6-mile out and back hike travels from Tynan Park to the top of the second peak on Mount Higby. From the parking area at Tynan Park, follow the Blue-Red Tynan Park Connector Trail. At mile 0.5, cross Fall Brook on the rocks. (This crossing can be tricky at times of high water). At mile 0.9, turn left on the Blue-Blazed Mattabesett Trail to head south. At mile 2.3 reach the summit of Mount Higby (elevation 892 feet). At mile 3.3, reach the top of Camel’s Hump (elevation 720 feet).
At mile 3.8, turn around on the Mattabesett Trail where it begins its descent to Route 66, and head north. At mile 4.3, pass over Camel’s Hump and at mile 5.3, pass over Mount Higby. At mile 6.7, turn right on the Blue-Red Tynan Park Connector. At mile 7.1, cross Fall Brook. Return the parking area at mile 7.6.
For a shorter 5-mile hike, turn around at the first peak for Mount Higby.
For a longer 9.6-mile hike, turn around at Route 147.
· GPS track: This track is for a 10.9-mile hike from Tynan Park in Middletown to Route 68 in Durham. For this hike, pick up the track at Tynan Park and turn around at mile 3.8 at the start of the descent toward Route 66. I would not repeat this full hike because it was too long and tiring.
GPS track for the full Tynan Park to Rt. 68 hike: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/30076759
· Safety concerns: Footing can be difficult on the hills during wet and icy conditions. Wear traction devices when it is icy. The crossing at Fall Brook half a mile from the parking area at Tynan Park does not have a bridge and can be a challenge during times of high water.
· Special considerations: The roar of traffic from I-91 is irritating. After doing this through hike, I decided it was more enjoyable to separate this into two hikes: an out and back to the views on Mount Higby and a one-way hike south of Route 66.
· Historical Note: The wreckage from a 1954 plane crash is on Mount Higby, about a tenth of a mile east of the Mattabesett Trail on an unmarked trail. Fellow hiker David Reik shows pictures of the wreck with directions on how to find it, a link to an ArcGIS map with a pin showing the location, along with original newspaper articles about the crash at his website:
· Trail sections to skip: From the descent from the peaks on Mount Higby to the trailhead on Route 147, the trail has little to offer. The footing is loose and rocky descending toward Route 66. Where the trail parallels Route 66, there is plenty of road noise.
Mattabesett Trail: Beseck Mountain. Meriden, Wallingford, Middlefield and Durham
· Why you should go: This hike offers impressive views from the top of Beseck Mountain to the west and north, including Chauncey Peak, West Peak and East Peak at Hubbard Park, and Mount Higby. Black Pond beneath the ridge frames all these views. Near the southern end of the hike, there is a good view of the Ulbrich Reservoir, aka Pistapaug Pond. Near the midway point between Route 66 and Route 68, hike across the top of the Powder Ridge Ski Area.
· Starting Location/Parking: Meet along the road at 10 Airline Drive (or Park), Durham, and car spot to Rt. 147, just south of Rt. 66, Middlefield. This is located within an industrial park where there is plenty of parking along the road. There is little parking along Route 68.
· Directions to Airline Drive, Durham: I-91, Exit 15 to Rt. 68 East for 2.6 miles. Left on Rt. 157 North, then immediate right on Airline Park, and park along the road near Rt. 157. Rt. 15, Exit 66 to Rt. 5 South to Rt. 68 East for 5.5 miles. Left on Rt. 157 North, then immediate right on Airline Park, and park along the road near Rt. 157.
Rt. 9, Exit 11 to Rt. 155 West for 2.2 miles. Left on Rt. 17 South for 4 miles. Right on Rt. 68 West for 2.6 miles. Right on Rt. 157 North, then immediate right on Airline Park, and park along the road near Rt. 157.
Car spot directionsto 495 Baileyville Rd. (Rt. 147), Middlefield. The car spot is 4.5 miles and 10 minutes. There is room for about 8 cars along the shoulder, just south of Route 66.
Right on Rt. 157 North, then after railroad left on Powder Street/Powder Hill Rd. for 2.6 miles. Left on Rt. 147 North for 1.7 miles. Parking is along the shoulder on the left side.
· Map link: https://newenglandtrail.org/get-on-the-trail/ct-net-section-11-mattabesetttrail
· Trail Descriptions: This is a typical trail across a trap rock ridge. On the lower sections in the woods, the footing is a dirt path. On the ridge top, the surface is uneven and rocky with loose rocks. Some trail sections near Black Pond come VERY close to the edge, so pay attention to your footing, especially when it is wet or icy. The hike is a series of climbs and descents with the high point at Powder Ridge. From Powder Ridge heading south, the general trend is downhill, but there are short uphills along the way.
· Suggested Hike: This 5.9-mile hike is a one-way trip from Route 147 south to Route 68. Total elevation gain is 900 ft. of climbing with 1,050 ft. of descents. The trail is mostly downhill to for the last 1.5 miles.
From Route 147, enter the woods, heading west on the Blue-Blazed Mattabesett Trail. The trail reaches the midpoint of Black Pond in 1 mile, the Powder Ridge ski lifts in 3 miles, and passes under the powerlines at 4 miles. At mile 5.7, where the Blue Trail crosses the road, turn left on Route 68 East, then take the next left along Route 157 North, and then the next right on Airline Drive to the cars.
· GPS track: This track is for a 10.9-mile hike from Tynan Park in Middletown to Route 68 in Durham. For this hike, pick up the track at Route 147 at mile 4.9. GPS track for the full Tynan Park to Rt. 68 hike: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/30076759
· Safety concerns: Footing can be difficult on the hills during wet and icy conditions. Wear traction devices when it is icy.
· Special considerations: For those who do not want to do a car spot, meet at the trailhead on Route 147, south of Route 66, and hike the trail out and back. If you turn around at Powder Ridge, you will get an 8-mile hike.The best views are between Route 147 and Powder Ridge.
After doing this through hike, I decided it was more enjoyable to separate this into two hikes: an out and back to the views on Mount Higby and a one-way hike south of Route 66.
· Trail sections to skip: From the descent from the peaks on Mount Higby to the trailhead on Route 147, the trail has little to offer. The footing is loose and rocky descending toward Route 66. Where the trail parallels Route 66, there is plenty of road noise. The trail then crosses busy Route 66 where there are turning cars from Route 147. The hike to Mount Higby from Tynan Park is narrated elsewhere on this page.
I do not recommend the Mattabesett Trail from Route 17 in Durham over Trimountain to Route 68 in Wallingford. There are three major climbs with 1,300 feet of elevation gain. The only view is near a firing range with a steady noise that does not encourage lingering to enjoy the scenery.
Mattabesett Trail: Bluff Head, Broomstick Ledges, Rockland Preserve and Braemore Preserve
· Why you should go: The views from Bluff Head are excellent, while the North Slope Trail is scenic, especially by Hemlock Brook, and the Brookstick Ledges is an interesting area. This is a section of the Mattabesett Trail where it is possible to hike a loop without repeating trails.
· Starting Location/Parking: Meet at the Braemore Preserve, 5005 Durham Road (Rt. 77), Guilford, 5.2 mi. north of Rt. 80, and 9.5 miles north of I-95, across from Bluff Head Farm. Look for the blue oval sign for the “Lone Pine Trail.” There is room for about 12 cars here.
· Directions: I-95 North, Exit 58 and turn left on Rt. 77 North for 9.6 miles. From I-95 South, Exit 58 and turn right on Rt. 77 North for 9.5 miles. The parking area is on right.
From the Middletown area, take Rt. 9 South, Exit 13 to Rt. 17 South. In Durham, bear left onto Rt. 77 South for 3.2 miles. The parking area is on the left.
From the Meriden area and points north, take I-91 South, Exit 15, then left on Route 68 East for 5.3 miles. Right on Route 17 South for 1.1 miles. Right on Route 77 South for 3.2 miles. The parking area is on the left.
· Map links: There are four maps to cover the area of this hike. The Northwoods Old Pent Road Poster Map shows the entire hike in detail, but is rather large for printing: https://guilfordlandtrust.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/NorthwoodsOldPentRoadPoster20200209.pdf
The Northwoods Bluff Head and James Valley Preserve map shows details for the area west of Route 77: https://scrcog.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Northwoods-JVBH_ALT.pdf
The Braemore Preserve map shows the area east of Route 77: https://scrcog.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Braemore-Preserve_ALT.pdf
The Rockland Preserve map shows the hike area in Madison:
https://www.madisonct.org/DocumentCenter/View/727/Rockland-Trail-Map?bidId
· Trail Descriptions: There is a steep climb on the North Slope Trail up to the Mattabesett Trail. The initial descent from Bluff Head is quite steep. There are also some steep sections on the east side of Rt. 77 through Broomstick Ledges. Too much of the Lone Pine Trail on the west side of Rt. 77 has been torn up by ATVs.
· Suggested Hike: By hiking in this direction, the most intense climbing is in the first half of the hike. From the parking area, turn left to follow the Blue-Red Lone Pine Trail south along Route 77. In 0.2 miles, turn right and cross Route 77 to follow the Blue-Red Trail into the woods. At 1 mile, turn left on the Blue-White North Slope Trail. This turn is easy to miss. At 1.6 miles, turn left on the Blue-Blazed Mattabesett Trail. From 0.8 to 1.6 miles is a steady climb, going from 250 ft. to 670 ft. of elevation. At 2.2 miles, arrive at the Myerhuber Pond overlook for a break. At mile 2.7, you arrive at a trail junction. Turn right to follow that trail. That trail used to be blazed Blue-Orange and may still be. The trail to the left, which was originally the Blue Trail is a steep and slippery descent to Route 77. At mile 3.2, turn left to stay on the trail you descended on. At this junction, the unblazed Firetower Road (dirt) goes right. At mile 3.6, go straight on the Blue Trail at the parking lot and cross Route 77 to the Broomstick Ledges. At mile 4.8, turn left on the Mattabesett Trail at the junction where the Blue-Blazed Menunketuck Trail goes straight, heading south to Long Island Sound. At about 5.4 miles, the Blue Trail enters the Rockland Preserve in Madison where you will also see Red blazes under the Blue blazes. At mile 6.3, turn left on the Blue-Red Lone Pine Trail by the large signboard. At mile 7.4, the hike ends at the Lone Pine parking area.
For a longer hike of 10.2 miles:At mile 1, continue on the Blue-Red Trail for another 1.9 miles, and at the junction with the Blue Trail turn left and go 1.5 miles at which point the Blue Trail passes the Blue-White Trail. Resume the hike notes at 1.6 miles, but you have 4.4 miles. In hiking this longer loop, you are gaining mileage, but it means more time on the ATV-damaged Lone Pine Trail. The additional section of the Mattabesett Trail is a stroll through a hardwood forest with little to see. You are also giving up the scenic North Slope Trail.
For a shorter hike of 4.7 miles:After crossing Route 77 on the Blue Trail, turn left at 3.8 miles and head north on the Blue-Yellow Etzel-Meyerhuber Trail. At mile 4.4, where the Blue-Yellow Trail turns left, walk north along Route 77 and arrive back at the parking lot at 4.7 miles.
· GPS track: This 7.4-mile counterclockwise loop hike with 1,200 ft. of elevation gainfollows the Lone Pine Trail to the Blue-Blazed Mattabesett Trail. The hills are more gradual in the second half: http://ridewithgps.com/trips/3799681
· Safety concerns: Some trail segments are steep and would be difficult to hike in icy conditions. Portions of the Mattabesett Trail at Bluff Head are somewhat close to the edge.
· Special considerations: There are a variety of trails in these different preserves, so make sure you are on the correct trail.
Mattabesett Trail: Mica Ledges to Mt. Pisgah, Madison and Durham
· Why you should go: Mount Pisgah offers an excellent view to the west, including Bluff Head to the southwest, along this same trail. Pyramid Rock is an interesting large rock formation. Chalker Brook is a pretty stream that runs through a ravine. This is a section of the Mattabesett Trail where it is possible to hike a loop without repeating trails.
· Starting Location/Parking: Meet at the Rockland Preserve trailhead, 99 Renees Way, Madison.
· Directions: I-95, Exit 61 to Rt. 79 North for 9.4 miles. Left on Dorset Lane for 0.4 miles. Right on Devonshire Lane for 0.6 miles. Right on Renees Way and drive to the end.
Rt. 9 South, Exit 13 to Rt. 17 South for 6.9 miles. Left on Rt. 79 South for 4.4 miles. Right on Dorset Lane on Dorset Lane for 0.4 miles. Right on Devonshire Lane for 0.6 miles. Right on Renees Way and drive to the end.
· Map link: Rockland Preserve map: https://www.madisonct.org/DocumentCenter/View/727/Rockland-2016?bidId=
Mica Ledges map: http://scrcog.org/wp-content/uploads/trails/madison/alt/RecTrails_MA14_Alt_6-2-16.pdf
Use both maps because the Mica Ledges map has details not on the Rockland Preserve map, which covers the whole area for this hike.
· Trail Descriptions: This trail section has some moderate ups and downs with potentially slippery footing on rocks on a few areas. There are several rocky outcroppings with good viewpoints. There are numerous unmarked trails that criss-cross the Mattabesett Trail. The hike passes through the western part of Rockland Preserve, which has an extensive network of mountain biking trails.This hike has 1,400 ft. of elevation gain. The Connecticut Walk Book says the Cream Pot Road Access Trail is Blue-Red. The trail is actually Blue-Yellow.
· Suggested Hike: This 7.6-mile loop hike has 1,400 feet of elevation gain.There are LOT of cues to follow this loop, which are needed because there are so many trails in the area. I recommend tracing this loop with a highlighter on the Rockland Preserve map prior to entering the woods.
Go straight on the Dave Houston Trail (Red) from Renees Way. At mile 0.2, bear left on the Red Trail at the junction where Red also goes right. At mile 0.3, go straight as the Mattabesett Trail (Blue) merges with the Red Trail. At 0.6 miles, go straight on the Blue Trail as it passes the Lone Pine Trail (Blue-Red) on the left. At 0.7 miles, bear left on the Blue Trail where the Red Trail goes right. Continue straight on the Blue Trail as it passes multiple side trails: the Crossover Trail (Red) on right at mile 1.0, the Maria Schmidt Trail (Orange) on right at mile 1.6, the Selectmen’s Path (Yellow) on right at mile 1.8, and the Mica Ledges Trail (Red) on right at mile 2.5 by Pyramid Rock. (The Selectmen’s Stones are along the Blue Trail at mile 1.7). The Blue Trail crosses Cream Pot Road (dirt) at mile 2.7 where the Blue-Yellow Trail is on the left leading to the Cream Pot Road parking area and the Yellow Trail is on the right. Just beyond Cream Pot Road, the Blue Trail turns left BEFORE Chalker Brook, follows the brook a short distance north, and then crosses the brook on rocks. At mile 3, continue straight on the Blue Trail where an unblazed woods road is on the left. Continue straight past the sign that indicates “To Vista”, skipping this out and back because there is no view any more. At mile 3.7, enjoy the panoramic view from the Mount Pisgah overlook. The better view is on the lower ledge. Continuing past the overlook, bear right on the Blue Trail where the Blue-Red Trail leads out to Pisgah Road at mile 4.1. This next section of the Mattabesett Trail overlaps with the Purple Northern Exposure mountain bike trail for most of the way.) At mile 5.6, follow the Blue Trail along Dead Hill Road. At mile 5.7, go straight on the Rockland Loop Trail (Orange) along Dead Hill Rd. where the Mattabesett Trail goes left, heading east and north. At mile 6.3, continue straight on the Rockland Loop Trail (Orange) along Dead Hill Rd. where the Crossover Trail (Red) is on the right. At mile 6.6 go straight to head south on the Old Crooked Hill Rd. Trail (Yellow), where the Orange Trail goes left, and the Crooked Hill Rd. Trail (Yellow) goes west. The Yellow Trail soon veers right and heads east where Dead Hill Road goes east. At mile 7.2, bear right and follow the Coan Pond Loop along north side of pond. Stay on the pond loop where the Yellow Trail goes right and north. On the west side of the pond, turn left at mile 7.5 on the Dave Houston Trail (Red) at the T-intersection. The hike ends at mile 7.6 at Renees Way.
· GPS track: To be added at a later date.
· Safety concerns: Footing may be slippery in a few areas. Be aware that mountain bikers may use some trails and it is common for a hiker to be surprised by a bicycle coming up behind them. It is easier for hikers to step aside and let them ride by, rather than asking the bikers to stop and dismount.
· Special considerations: Parking is also available at 125 Dead Hill Road in Durham.Directions to Dead Hill Road:I-95, Exit 61 to Rt. 79 North for 12.1 miles. Left on Pisgah Rd. for 0.3 miles. Left on Dead Hill Rd. for 0.5 miles to the end.
Rt. 9 South, Exit 13 to Rt. 17 South for 6.9 miles. Left on Rt. 79 South for 8.6 miles. Right on Pisgah Rd. for 0.3 miles. Left on Dead Hill Rd. for 0.5 miles to the end.
I-91, Exit 15 to Rt. 68 East for 5.3 miles Right on Rt. 17 South for 0.9 miles. Bear left on Rt. 79 South for 1.7 miles. Right on Pisgah Rd. for 0.3 miles. Left on Dead Hill Rd. for 0.5 miles to the end.
· Skipped section: The Mattabesett Trail from Higganum Road to Dead Hill Road is 4.2 miles. The trail passes through Cockaponset State Park and water company land. The trail is pretty in this section and is worth doing, but requires either a car spot or hiking out and back. This section can also be done with the 1.3-mile long Coginchaug Cave Connector Trail (Blue-Orange), which used to be the Mattabesett Trail before a major relocation moved the Blue Trail from the road into the woods.
Mattabesett Trail: Millers Pond State Park to the Cockaponset State Forest, including Bear Rock, Haddam and Durham
· Why you should go: This hike offers scenic views of Millers Pond and with a vista from the top of Bear Rock. There are many hiking options at Millers Pond beyond the loop described here.
· Starting Location/Parking: Meet at Millers Pond State Park, 345 Foot Hills Rd., Higganum. Note that this address is approximate and your GPS may not bring you to this exact location. Millers Pond is a popular park for swimming in summer, so the parking area will definitely fill up on hot days. The state has “No Parking” signs posted all along the roads near the entrance.
· Directions: From the Hartford area, Rt. 9 to Exit 11, then left on Rt. 155 West for 1.4 miles. Left on Millbrook Rd. 2.3 miles. Bear left onto Foothills Rd. at Johnson Lane. Right into the parking area. From the shoreline, I-95 Exit 61 to Rt. 79 North for 11.2 miles. Right on Rt. 148 East, then next left on Blue Hills Rd. for 2.2 miles. Straight on Wiese Albert Rd. for 1 mile. Straight on Foot Hills Rd. Left into the park.
· Map link: Millers Pond: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/DEEP/stateparks/maps/georeferenced/MillersPondNewpdf.pdf?la=en
· Trail Descriptions: Terrain is gently rolling throughout. Most trails are blazed on this hike, but one trail is unblazed.
· Suggested Hike: There are LOT of cues to follow this loop, which are needed because there are so many trails in the area. I recommend tracing this loop on the Millers Pond map with a highlighter prior to entering the woods. For those who are directionally challenged, it may be best to backtrack on the Blue Trail from Bear Rock back to Millers Pond.
From the parking area, walk straight toward the gate and go past the signboard. Go straight on the White Trail (White also goes left here) along the west side of the pond. At mile 0.7, go straight on the Blue-Blazed Mattabessett Trail by the dam where the Blue-White Trail goes left along the pond. At mile 0.9, go straight on the Blue Trail, crossing the Red Trail. At mile 1.5, continue straight on the Blue Trail, crossing the unmarked trail on the Cockaponset State Forest property. At mile 2.0, make a U-turn on the Blue Trail at Bear Rock after enjoying the view from the top. Almost immediately, turn right on the Blue-Red Bear Rock Bypass Trail. After this very short trail, turn left on the Blue Trail at mile 2.1, heading west and then south toward Harvey Road. At mile 2.6, cross Harvey Road (paved) and continue on the Blue Trail.
At mile 2.9, make a U-turn on the Blue Trail at Higganum Road (paved). At mile 3.2, turn right on Harvey Road (paved), leaving behind the Blue Trail. Almost immediately, turn left just before the stream on the unmarked trail heading north. At mile 3.6, continue straight on the unmarked trail, crossing the Blue Trail. At mile 4, continue straight on the unmarked trail where another woods road goes left up a short hill. At mile 4.2, continue straight on the unmarked trail the first time you see the Red Trail. At mile 4.3, turn right on the Red Trail heading west. At mile 6, turn right on the Red Trail after crossing a small stream. At mile 6.9, the Red Trail arrives at the parking area.
For a shorter hike: Backtrack on the Blue Trail from Bear Rock and when you get back to the state park, follow the Blue-White Trail counterclockwise around Millers Pond to the White Trail and the parking lot.
For a longer hike: Follow the trails along the east side of Millers Pond.
· GPS track: This track is for a 6.9 mile loop hike out to Bear Rock with a mild 700 feet of elevation gain. Track:https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1058260197
· Safety concerns: Footing can be tricky on the short ascent to Bear Rock. While Miller’s Pond is a popular swimming area, the state has not made it an official area because the pond has sharp drop-offs from the edges. People drown in the pond on a regular basis, in part because of the drop-offs.
· Special considerations: The Red Trail was built by mountain bikers, so expect to find cyclists on this and other trails at Millers Pond. While the Blue Trail is intended for foot travel only, cyclists may not be aware of this or pay attention to the restriction.
Mattabesett Trail: Seven Falls Loop, Higganum (Haddam)
· Why you should go: Despite the name, there are not seven waterfalls here, but instead there are a series of pretty cascades along Bible Rock Brook. This route uses a portion of the Blue-Blazed Mattabesett Trail and two Blue-Yellow Trails to make this into a loop hike. There are not too many sections of the Mattabesett Trail where there is a loop option, so enjoy not having to either do a car spot for a one-way hike, or doing an out and back, requiring you to see a particular trail section twice.
· Starting Location/Parking: Park along Route 154 by Seven Falls Park in winter or in the parking lot in the warmer months. There is room for about 15 cars along the road.
· Directions:Rt. 9, Exit 10 to Rt. 154 South for 0.8 miles. The picnic area is on the left. Look for the blue “Seven Falls” sign.
· Map link: There is a map in the Connecticut Walk Book.
There is also a map on the New England Trail website: https://newenglandtrail.org/get-on-the-trail/ct-net-section-02-mattabesett-trail
The Seven Falls Loop is also shown on pages 18-19 of the Middletown Trail Guide: http://www.cityofmiddletown.com/DocumentCenter/View/12950/Middletown-Trail-Guide-PDF
· Trail Descriptions: The Mattabesett Trail winds under the powerlines, over rock formations, and past assorted cascades. Footing can be tricky on some of the rock formations in slippery conditions.
· Suggested Hike: From the parking area, walk north on Route 154. After crossing Bible Rock Brook on the road bridge, turn right onto the Blue-Blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Mattabesett Trail will intersect or cross the Blue-Yellow Trail a number of times as you head east, and the trail will also cross Freeman Road and Aircraft Road, which are regular, paved roads open to traffic. At mile 4.3, turn right on the Blue-Yellow Bear Hill Loop to begin your return. At mile 6, at the end of the Bear Hill Loop, turn left on the Mattabesset Trail heading south. At mile 6.4, shortly after crossing Freeman Road, turn right on the Blue-Yellow Seven Falls Loop. At Route 154, turn left and head south back to the parking area.
For a shorter hike, turn back on the Bear Hill Loop (Blue-Yellow) at mile 1.8 (for a hike of 3.5 miles), mile 3.0 (for a hike of 6 miles), or mile 3.4 (for a hike of 6.8 miles).
For a longer hike (9.3 miles), continue on the Mattabesett Trail for another 1.2 miles past the Bear Hill Loop crossing at mile 4.25. Turn left at the Bear Hill Loop and follow this Blue-Yellow Trail to its end, turning left on the Mattabesett Trail. Follow the notes above from mile 6 to return.
· GPS track: This track is for a 7.5 mile loop on the Mattabesett Trail, Bear Hill Loop, and Seven Falls Loop Trails with 1,200 feet of elevation gain. The hike is a steady ascent to mile 5, and then is a steady descent with some climbs and descents along the way. This track includes the short out and back walk along the road to see Bible Rock: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/30365791
· Safety concerns: The Mattabesett Trail has a number of rock formations that are slippery in wet conditions, so this hike is best done on a dry day. At times of high water level, when the cascades are most enjoyable, some stream crossings could be a challenge.
· Special considerations: From this location, it is a 0.1 mile walk to Bible Rock, a rock formation about 15 feet high that looks like an open book. Bible Rock is located off-trail on the west side of Rt. 154, 0.1 miles north of the Mattabesett Trail. Enter the woods by utility pole 3861. The rock is visible from the road. The split part of the rock is private property. The flat part to one side is state property. There is plenty of poison ivy when walking in from the road, so be careful where you step and where you put your hands. Bible Rock information: http://www.haddamhistory.org/landmarks.htm
· Skipped section: From Route 154 to Millers Pond State Park is a 5-mile hike, the first 2 miles of which are along fairly quiet country roads. There is another 0.7-mile road walk approaching Millers Pond.
Mattabesett Trail: Asylum Reservoir Loop, Middletown
· Why you should go: This section of the Mattabesett Trail and the related Bear Hill Loop and Reservoir Loop offers views of two of the Asylum Reservoirs, a vista toward the hills in Portland, and various craggy rock formations to traverse. This hike is a loop hike option to the Bear Hill Road to River Road hike that involves a car spot, but does not include the Mattabesett Trail from the eastern crossing of Reservoir Road to River Road. However, it does include the Reservoir Loop along the eastern side of Asylum Reservoir #2.
· Starting Location/Parking: Mattabesett Trail parking lot, 200 Bear Hill Road, Middletown. This is an approximate address in an area with no buildings and your GPS may bring you to a slightly different location.
· Directions to the Bear Hill Road trailhead: Rt. 9 North or South, Exit 11, then right on Rt. 155 East (Randolph Rd) for 0.2 miles. Right on Rt. 154 South (Saybrook Rd.) for 0.3 miles. Left on Brooks Rd. for 0.7 miles, then right on Bear Hill Rd. for 0.2 miles, and the parking is on the left and right.
There is parking for about 4 cars by the gate, or up the hill parking for about 6 cars under the powerlines.
· Map link: New England Trail website: https://newenglandtrail.org/get-on-the-trail/ct-net-section-01-mattabesett-trail
Middletown Trail Guide (pages 18-19): http://www.cityofmiddletown.com/DocumentCenter/View/2583/Middletown-Trail-Guide-PDF
· Trail Descriptions: The trails have short climbs and descents along this entire segment with some steep sections.
· Suggested Hike: This 6.1-mile hike with 900 feet of elevation gain uses the Mattabesett Trail, the Bear Hill Loop and the Reservoir Loop to form a barbell-shaped hike with a loop at each end with a straight segment connecting them.
Hike Notes:From the Bear Hill Road trailhead, head south on the Blue-Blazed Mattabesett Trail by the “Preserve” sign. At mile 0.2, turn left on the Blue Trail where the Blue-Yellow Bear Hill Loop goes right. At mile 1.4, turn right on the Blue-Yellow Trail. At mile 2, go straight on the Blue Trail at the end of the powerlines. At mile 2.2, cross Bear Hill Road (paved). At mile 2.4, turn left on the Blue Trail at Brooks Road (paved): the Blue-Yellow Reservoir Loop is on the right, then re-enter the woods on the Blue Trail, walking along the west side of Asylum Reservoir #2. At mile 3, turn left on the Blue Trail, ascending the rock formation for a good lunch spot with a view. Beyond the viewpoint, continue straight on the Blue Trail, crossing the Blue-Yellow Trail. At mile 3.4 go straight on the Blue Trail, crossing Reservoir Road (dirt) at the Blue-Yellow Trail, walking along the east side of Reservoir #1. At mile 3.8, turn right on the Blue Trail by the Rock Pile Cave. At mile 4.4, turn right on Reservoir Road (dirt) heading west where the Blue Trail continues straight. At mile 4.7, cross the Blue Trail, and then turn left on the Blue-Yellow Reservoir Loop heading south. At mile 4.9, again cross the Blue Trail, continuing south on the Blue-Yellow Trail. At mile 5.9, turn right on Brooks Road (paved), then left on the Blue Trail to return to the parking area on Bear Hill Road.
· GPS track: To be added at a later date.
· Safety concerns: Footing is generally good, but does have some sections that could be tricky in slippery conditions.
· Special considerations:There are numerous unblazed trails in this area; pay careful attention to blazes to make sure you are on the correct trail. If you don’t see a blaze after hiking a few hundred feet, backtrack on the trail until you see a blaze.
Mattabesett Trail: Bear Hill Road to River Road, Middletown
· Why you should go: This section of the Mattabesett Trail and the related Bear Hill Loop offers views of two of the Asylum Reservoirs, a vista toward the hills in Portland, and various craggy rock formations to traverse. This hike requires a car spot where the group meets at River Road, and then carpools to the Bear Hill Road trailhead.
For a loop in this area that does not involve a car spot, follow the notes for the Mattabesett Trail: Aslyum Reservoirs Loop. The variation excludes the Mattabesett Trail between Reservoir Road and River Road, but does include the Blue-Yellow Reservoir Trail along Asylum Reservoir #2.
· Starting Location/Parking: Mattabesett Trail parking area, 1825 River Road, Middletown. This is an approximate address in an area with few buildings and your GPS may bring you to a slightly different location. Park in the dirt lot along the guardrail across from the powerplant where there is room for about 20 cars.
· Directions to the River Road trailhead: Rt. 9 North, Exit 12, then straight on Eastern Drive for 0.4 miles. Right on Silver St. for 0.7 miles. Continue straight on River Rd. for about 2 miles. The parking area is on the right across from the power plant.
Rt. 9 South, Exit 12, then left on Silver St. for 0.2 miles, then continue straight on River Rd. for about 2 miles. The parking area is on the right across from power plant.
From the west, follow Rt. 66 to Rt. 9 South and follow the above directions.
Car spot directions from River Rd. to Bear Hill Rd. (with an approximate address of 200 Bear Hill Rd., Middletown. (5 miles, 12 min.): Left on River Rd. heading west for 2 miles. Left on Silver St., then bear left on Eastern Dr. for 0.4 miles. Right on Bow Lane at T-int., then next left on Tryon St. after Rt. 9 bridge. Next left on Rt. 154 South (Saybrook Rd.,) for 1.4 miles. Left on Brooks Rd. for 0.7 miles, then right on Bear Hill Rd. for 0.2 miles, and the parking is on the left and right. There is parking for about 4 cars by the gate, or up the hill parking for about 6 cars under the powerlines.
· Map link: New England Trail website: https://newenglandtrail.org/get-on-the-trail/ct-net-section-01-mattabesett-trail
Middletown Trail Guide (pages 18-19): http://www.cityofmiddletown.com/DocumentCenter/View/2583/Middletown-Trail-Guide-PDF
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