Connecticut is a beautiful state with a variety of outdoor activities for families, and hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, there are plenty of trails that offer easy terrain, scenic views, and a chance to explore the great outdoors. Here’s a guide to the top 10 family-friendly hikes in Connecticut that are perfect for a day of adventure with your kids.
1. Sleeping Giant State Park – Hamden
- Trail: Tower Trail
- Distance: 1.6 miles (one way)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: The Tower Trail at Sleeping Giant State Park is a popular choice for families. The wide, well-maintained path leads to a stone observation tower that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Along the way, kids can spot wildlife and enjoy the varied terrain.
2. Bear Mountain – Salisbury
- Trail: Undermountain Trail
- Distance: 2.1 miles (one way)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Bear Mountain is the highest peak in Connecticut and offers a rewarding hike with panoramic views. The trail is relatively steep, but older kids will love the challenge and the sense of accomplishment when they reach the summit.
3. Wadsworth Falls State Park – Middletown
- Trail: Main Trail to the Falls
- Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: This easy loop trail takes you through a lush forest and along the Coginchaug River to the beautiful Wadsworth Falls. The trail is mostly flat, making it ideal for young children, and the waterfall is a perfect spot for a family photo.
4. Heublein Tower – Talcott Mountain State Park, Simsbury
- Trail: Tower Trail
- Distance: 1.25 miles (one way)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: The hike to Heublein Tower is a family favorite, offering a gradual ascent to the historic tower with breathtaking views of the Farmington Valley. The wide, gravel path is easy to navigate, and the tower itself is a fun destination for kids to explore.
5. Devil’s Hopyard State Park – East Haddam
- Trail: Chapman Falls Trail
- Distance: 2 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: This scenic trail leads to the impressive Chapman Falls, where water cascades over a 60-foot rock formation. The trail is relatively easy, with some rocky areas that kids will enjoy scrambling over.
6. Chatfield Hollow State Park – Killingworth
- Trail: Indian Council Caves Trail
- Distance: 2.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: The Indian Council Caves Trail is a gentle hike through a forested area with unique rock formations and small caves that kids will love exploring. The trail also passes by a picturesque lake, offering plenty of opportunities for family photos.
7. Lovers Leap State Park – New Milford
- Trail: Lovers Leap Trail
- Distance: 1.2 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: This short, easy hike offers stunning views of the Housatonic River from a dramatic cliffside. The trail is well-marked and includes a historic iron bridge, adding a bit of history to your adventure.
8. Penwood State Park – Bloomfield
- Trail: Lake Louise Trail
- Distance: 1.75 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: The Lake Louise Trail is an easy, family-friendly hike that loops around a serene lake. The trail is mostly flat and offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, making it a great choice for families with young children.
9. Kent Falls State Park – Kent
- Trail: Kent Falls Trail
- Distance: 0.25 miles (one way)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Although short, the Kent Falls Trail is a must-do for families. The trail leads to a series of cascading waterfalls, and the easy, paved path is perfect for strollers and little ones. There are also picnic areas nearby, making it a great spot for a family outing.
10. Peoples State Forest – Barkhamsted
- Trail: Henry Buck Trail
- Distance: 2 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: The Henry Buck Trail offers a bit more of a challenge but rewards hikers with beautiful views of the Farmington River. The trail is well-marked and takes you through a mix of forested areas and open meadows, making it a great option for families with older kids.
Tips for Hiking with Kids:
- Bring plenty of snacks and water: Keeping your kids fueled and hydrated is key to a successful hike.
- Dress in layers: Connecticut weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared.
- Use a child carrier for younger kids: For trails that are too challenging for little legs, a child carrier can help.
- Take breaks: Don’t rush the hike—let your kids explore at their own pace and enjoy the surroundings.
These family-friendly hikes offer a great way to explore Connecticut’s natural beauty and create lasting memories with your kids. Happy hiking!
