The best walks and hikes in Natchaug State Forest

The Natchaug and CCC Trail Loop offers a delightful moderate hike through Natchaug State Forest, winding past the Natchaug River and through mature upland forests. You'll navigate narrow woods paths with natural obstacles like roots and rocks, experiencing a journey through diverse scenery including Beaverdam Marsh, a favored spot for migrating waterfowl. This 5.0-mile (8.1 km) route with 420 feet (128 metres) of elevation gain is perfect for those seeking a varied forest experience.

This loop is generally rated as moderate, taking about 2 hours and 12 minutes to complete, and is best suited for hikers comfortable with uneven surfaces and some elevation changes. Multiple parking areas and picnic spots are available, making planning easy. While accessible year-round, consider visiting in mid-October for the most spectacular autumn foliage.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail boasts historical significance, incorporating sections of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Trail, built during the Great Depression. You can also discover the intriguing stone ruins of an old mill site and the lone standing stone chimney marking the birthplace of Brigadier General Nathaniel Lyon, adding a unique historical layer to your hike in Eastern Connecticut.

The Nipmuck Trail Loop offers a fantastic taste of Connecticut's rugged beauty, guiding you through diverse landscapes that include dense forests, open fields, and winding paths alongside rivers and ponds. You'll navigate predominantly rocky and root-filled singletrack, typical of the region, with sections that traverse deep ravines and ancient fault lines. This moderate 6.3-mile (10.2 km) hike, with its 456 feet (139 metres) of elevation gain, provides a rewarding experience in about 2 hours and 46 minutes, perfect for those seeking a varied and engaging outdoor adventure.

When planning your visit, remember that sections of the Nipmuck Trail, particularly those within the Yale-Myers Forest, are popular, so arriving earlier in the day can help secure parking. The trail is part of the well-regarded "Blue-Blazed" system, ensuring good maintenance, but be prepared for potentially muddy spots, especially after rain. While no specific permits are needed for day hiking, checking local conditions and seasonal considerations, such as fall foliage, can enhance your experience.

This loop is a notable segment of the much larger Nipmuck Trail system, which is famous for connecting numerous conservation areas and even hosts the NipMuck Trail Marathon, one of New England's oldest trail races. You'll be hiking through areas rich in natural features, including diverse hillside forests with hemlock and pine stands, and potentially passing by significant landmarks like Wolf Rock or scenic overlooks. It's a great way to explore the natural heritage of eastern Connecticut.

The Indian Chair via Wolf Den Blue Trail and Red Trail Loop offers a delightful easy hike through Mashamoquet Brook State Park, covering 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with 382 feet (116 metres) of elevation gain in about 1 hour and 12 minutes. You'll wander through beautiful pine and hardwood forests, encountering varied terrain that includes some rocky sections and gentle uphills. The trail's standout features are the historic Wolf Den, a famous cave tied to a local legend, and the natural stone formation known as Indian Chair, a perfect spot for a scenic break.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible and well-suited for most ability levels, including families. Spring, summer, and early fall are ideal times to experience the vibrant greenery of the forest. While there are no expansive viewpoints, the trail's charm lies in its historical landmarks and the peaceful woodland atmosphere. Always confirm park hours and any specific access requirements before heading out.

This loop is steeped in local history, most notably the tale of Israel Putnam and the last wolf of Connecticut at the Wolf Den, a site now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park itself is a combination of three state parks, preserved in part by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Beyond hiking, Mashamoquet Brook State Park offers camping and fishing, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Edwin Way Teale Memorial Sanctuary offers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes that once inspired Pulitzer Prize-winning naturalist Edwin Way Teale. You'll wander through open fields, dense forests, and past picturesque ponds like Hidden Pond, where you might spot evidence of beavers or hear woodland songbirds. This easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) hiking trail, with a gentle 99 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, provides a serene experience that takes approximately 55 minutes, making it a perfect short escape into nature.

Planning your visit to the Edwin Way Teale Memorial Sanctuary is straightforward, but a few tips will enhance your experience. The trails are not blazed, so grab a map from the information shed or check the kiosks at intersections to help with navigation. While the terrain is mostly easy, be prepared for some uneven or wet sections, especially after rain. Parking is available on-site, and arriving earlier in the day often means fewer crowds and more wildlife viewing opportunities.

What makes this sanctuary truly special is its rich history as the former home of Edwin Way Teale, whose deep connection to this land shaped his renowned writings. Exploring these trails allows you to walk in the footsteps of a great naturalist, visiting sites like his Writing Cabin and Nellie's Summerhouse. The sanctuary is a haven for wildlife, including various birds and small mammals, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world that inspired Teale's observations.

The Pixie Falls and Ladies Room Rock trail offers a delightful, easy hike through the forested landscapes of Ashford, Connecticut. You'll wander along sections of the historic Nipmuck Trail, discovering the charming Pixie Falls, a series of short cascades, and the impressive Ladies Room Rock, a massive glacial erratic boulder. This 2.0-mile (3.2 km) route, with a gentle 172 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a quick nature fix, taking about 52 minutes to complete.

Accessing the trailhead is typically easy, with parking available for this popular spot. While the trail is generally well-maintained, be mindful of potentially wet rocks near the falls, especially after rain, and icy conditions if you're visiting in winter. It's a great year-round destination, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions and scenery.

This trail is part of the extensive Blue-Blazed Nipmuck Trail, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, including following parts of the Old Connecticut Path. Keep an eye out for a unique "nurse rock" near Pixie Falls, where a hemlock tree grows directly on a large boulder, adding to the natural wonders of this Natchaug State Forest area.