1.
Marshall Lake loop from Old Crossroad Trail
11.2km
01:12
190m
190m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
RoutesRunning TrailsUnited StatesConnecticutNorthwest Hills Planning Region
Stillwater Pond State Park
RoutesRunning TrailsUnited StatesConnecticutNorthwest Hills Planning Region
Stillwater Pond State Park
The best running trails in Stillwater Pond State Park
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 9, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan jogging in Stillwater Pond State Park, you know the challenge: finding routes that are genuinely worth your time, not just a random path. With so many options, it's hard to tell the real highlights from the filler. That's where komoot comes in. Our community has mapped, run, and reviewed the best jogging routes here, so we've done the legwork to save you the guesswork.
Jogging in Stillwater Pond State Park is all about peaceful lakeside trails and diverse woodlands. The park, centered around the picturesque 100-acre Stillwater Pond, offers a tranquil escape through classic New England vegetation. While the trails are generally well-maintained, it's worth noting that the park's trail system is not extensively developed for long, continuous runs, often leading from parking areas to the water's edge. Expect moderate routes that offer scenic views rather than extensive, uninterrupted mileage.
If you're looking for a solid workout with varied scenery, we'd start with the Marshall Lake loop from Old Crossroad Trail. At 6.9 miles (11.2 km) with 634 feet (193 m) of elevation gain, it's a great way to experience the park's woodlands. For a slightly shorter, equally rewarding option, the Park Pond Preserve loop from Old Crossroad Trail is a fantastic choice at 4.0 miles (6.4 km), offering beautiful pond views. Dive into these routes and more, all curated by the komoot community.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marshall Lake loop from Old Crossroad Trail | 11.2Â km | 190Â m | Moderate |
| Park Pond Preserve loop from Old Crossroad Trail | 6.43Â km | 120Â m | Moderate |
| Platt Hill State Park loop from Old Crossroad Trail | 8.19Â km | 100Â m | Moderate |
| Travis Pond – Town Open Space loop from Burr Pond State Park | 6.39 km | 10 m | Moderate |
| Town Hill loop from Goshen | 9.86Â km | 130Â m | Moderate |
| Highland Lake – Holland Beach loop from Platt Hill State Park | 11.3 km | 80 m | Moderate |
| Running loop from Bristol Cove | 9.72Â km | 20Â m | Moderate |
Sign up to see all 7 routes
Sign up for free
2.
Park Pond Preserve loop from Old Crossroad Trail
6.43km
00:42
120m
120m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
3.
Platt Hill State Park loop from Old Crossroad Trail
8.19km
00:53
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
Sign up for free
4.
Travis Pond – Town Open Space loop from Burr Pond State Park
6.39km
00:39
10m
10m
The Travis Pond – Town Open Space loop from Burr Pond State Park offers a moderate 4.0-mile (6.4 km) jogging experience, featuring a gentle 32 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain that takes approximately 39 minutes to complete. This scenic route winds through diverse woodlands of hardwoods and hemlock, providing continuous views of Burr Pond and notable gigantic glacial boulders along the way. You'll encounter a varied surface of packed earth, paved sections, and some rock crossings, making for an engaging and visually appealing run.
Accessing this loop is straightforward from Burr Pond State Park, where ample parking is available. The park is dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets on the trails, and offers additional amenities like a beach and picnic areas, perfect for post-run relaxation. Given its accessible nature and well-maintained paths, this route is suitable for beginner joggers and families, offering a pleasant outdoor experience without significant logistical hurdles.
This trail network, particularly the Walcott Trail within Burr Pond State Park, holds historical significance as it was designed by Philip L. Buttrick of the Civilian Conservation Corps. The area is also notable as the site where Gail Borden built the world's first condensed milk factory in 1857, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your jog. It's a fantastic option for those seeking popular trails routes in the Torrington, CT area, combining natural beauty with a touch of local history.
View route
5.
Town Hill loop from Goshen
9.86km
01:09
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
6.
Highland Lake – Holland Beach loop from Platt Hill State Park
11.3km
01:10
80m
80m
The Highland Lake – Holland Beach loop from Platt Hill State Park offers a delightful blend of tranquil woodlands and expansive lake views, making it a fantastic jogging route. You'll move from the quiet, open fields of Platt Hill State Park, potentially catching glimpses of the Litchfield Hills, to the stunning, crystal-clear waters of Highland Lake. Passing Holland Beach provides excellent lakeside vistas, creating a varied and engaging experience for your run.
This moderate 7.0-mile (11.3 km) loop, with a gentle 258 feet (79 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Parking is generally available at Platt Hill State Park, which serves as the starting point. It's a great option for a morning or afternoon workout, especially during spring, summer, or fall when the scenery is at its best.
Combining the serene environment of Platt Hill State Park with the natural beauty of Highland Lake, this route is notable for its diverse scenery. Highland Lake itself is a significant natural feature in Winchester, Connecticut, offering opportunities for bird watching. The proximity of Burr Pond State Park also suggests a rich natural area, making this loop a prime example of the region's outdoor appeal.
View route
7.
Running loop from Bristol Cove
9.72km
01:00
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
Sign up for free to see 2 more runs in Stillwater Pond State Park.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
See every route on the map
Tips from the Community
Alex
February 27, 2024, Platt Hill State Park
Platt Hill State Park is an undeveloped public recreation area. Spanning 159 acres, it has trails, picnicking sites, and views of the surrounding forests for the public to enjoy.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running routes in Stillwater Pond State Park?
The park offers a mix of paths, with peaceful trails meandering alongside the 100-acre Stillwater Pond and through surrounding woodlands. While specific jogging trail surfaces are not detailed, the trails are generally suitable for various experience levels, providing a natural and engaging environment for runners.
Are there any easy running routes for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog?
Yes, Stillwater Pond State Park has options for all abilities. For an easier run, consider the Running loop from Burr Pond State Park, which is 4.0 miles (6.4 km) long and classified as easy.
What are the best times of year to go jogging in Stillwater Pond State Park?
Stillwater Pond State Park is beautiful year-round. Spring offers wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery and shade, and autumn transforms the landscape with brilliant fall foliage from oak and maple trees. Even in winter, pine trees offer year-round greenery. The park's serene environment makes it appealing in any season.
What kind of natural features and wildlife might I see while running?
Joggers can enjoy typical New England vegetation, including diverse trees and wildflowers. The park's ecosystem supports various wildlife such as deer, raccoons, squirrels, and numerous bird species like great blue herons and ospreys, especially around Stillwater Pond.
Are there any circular running routes in Stillwater Pond State Park?
Yes, several routes offer a loop experience. Popular options include the Marshall Lake loop from Old Crossroad Trail, the Park Pond Preserve loop from Old Crossroad Trail, and the Platt Hill State Park loop from Old Crossroad Trail.
What do other runners say about the trails in Stillwater Pond State Park?
The running routes in Stillwater Pond State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Runners often praise the peaceful lakeside trails, diverse woodlands, and the tranquil environment for a refreshing outdoor experience.
Are the running trails in Stillwater Pond State Park suitable for families?
The park features trails suitable for various experience levels, including easier paths. The serene environment and opportunities for wildlife observation make it a pleasant place for families to enjoy a jog or walk together. Consider the shorter, less challenging routes for family outings.
Is there parking available at Stillwater Pond State Park for runners?
Yes, trails within Stillwater Pond State Park typically lead from designated parking areas to the water's edge and into the surrounding natural areas, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Stillwater Pond State Park?
While the guide does not specify dog-friendly policies, state parks in Connecticut generally allow leashed dogs on trails. It's always recommended to check the official Stillwater Pond State Park website or local regulations for the most current information regarding pets.
What are some scenic points or views I can enjoy while jogging?
The trails often meander alongside the 100-acre Stillwater Pond, offering scenic views of the water and the surrounding woodlands. The reflection of vibrant foliage on the calm waters during autumn is particularly stunning. You'll also find lush New England vegetation throughout the park.
Are there any longer running routes for experienced runners?
For those seeking a longer challenge, the Marshall Lake loop from Old Crossroad Trail is a moderate 6.9 miles (11.2 km) route that takes approximately 1 hour 12 minutes to complete, offering extensive views and varied terrain.
What other activities can be done at Stillwater Pond State Park besides jogging?
Beyond jogging, Stillwater Pond is a popular spot for fishing, stocked with species like largemouth bass and rainbow trout. A paved boat ramp allows for boating and canoeing. The serene environment is also ideal for picnicking and wildlife observation.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
Explore more
Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.
OakvilleNepaug State ForestWatertownMount Tom State ParkNorthwest HarwintonNew Hartford CenterBridgewater Recreation AreaPaugnut State ForestBurr Pond State ParkWoodbury CenterNew PrestonBethlehem VillageWinstedTorringtonSunny Brook State ParkPeoples State ForestAmerican Legion State ForestAbove All State ParkWyantenock State ForestAlgonquin State ForestBantamPlatt Hill State ParkNew MilfordLake Waramaug State ParkLovers Leap State ParkMount Bushnell State Park Scenic ReserveJohn A. Minetto State ParkTerryvillePleasant ValleyGaylordsvilleBridgewaterThomastonRivertonMattatuck State ForestCornwall BridgeCamp Columbia State ParkLitchfieldChimney PointAlgonquin State Forest, Kitchel PreserveMacedonia Brook State ParkHumaston Brook State ParkLake Winfield Recreation AreaDennis Hill State ParkGreat Mountain ForestMount Riga State Park
