STAFFORD/WILLINGTON, CT — Summer is a great time to get outside, explore your community and try something new.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing walk, a family outing or a new fitness activity, the Stafford/Willington area offers a variety of opportunities to stay active close to home via an extensive trail network.
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On the trails, residents of all ages can find ways to enjoy the outdoors and keep moving throughout the season.
Here are 10 popular hiking trails and trail systems in or within a short drive of Stafford or Willington:
- Soapstone Mountain Trail — Somers. A moderate hike in Shenipsit State Forest leading to a historic observation tower with panoramic views of northern Connecticut and western Massachusetts. Shenipsit State Forest-Soapstone Mountain
- Peak Mountain via the Metacomet Trail — Stafford. A moderate hike featuring rocky ledges and scenic overlooks along Connecticut's blue-blazed Metacomet Trail.
- Bald Mountain Trail — Stafford. A wooded climb through Shenipsit State Forest with seasonal views and connections to additional blue-blazed trails. Shenipsit State Forest-Bald Mountain
- Nipmuck Trail — Stafford and Willington. One of Connecticut's longest blue-blazed trails, passing through forests, streams and rolling hills while connecting several local preserves.
- Fenton-Ruby Park and Wildlife Preserve Trails — Willington. More than four miles of marked trails through forests, wetlands and ponds with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Fenton-Ruby Park
- Talmadge Spur Trail — Willington. A short connector trail linking hikers to the Nipmuck Trail through mature hardwood forest. Talmadge Tract & Knowlton Preserve
- Knowlton Spur Trail — Willington. An easy woodland trail featuring glacial rock formations and access to the Nipmuck Trail. Talmadge Tract & Knowlton Preserve
- Chenes Roches Preserve Trail — Willington. A 1.8-mile loop through hardwood forests, pine stands and a hemlock-lined stream valley. Chenes Roches Preserve
- Woodlawn Trail — Stafford Springs. An easy walking trail in Hyde Park that follows woodland terrain and is suitable for families and casual hikers. Woodlawn Trail
- Bigelow Hollow State Park Trails — Union. Located about 15 minutes from Stafford, the park offers several miles of trails around Bigelow Pond and Breakneck Pond, ranging from easy walks to longer backcountry hikes. Bigelow Hollow State Park