Spring is here and ’tis the season for outdoor adventuring. Whether you like chasing waterfalls or exploring the shoreline, Connecticut is full of wonderful natural areas and state parks prime for an adventure. But if you love taking to the trails, you’ll want to head straight to the northern end of the state where one spot is an absolute hiker’s dream come true.
Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park can be found in Union. It is one of the largest unbroken forest areas in the state. With over 9,000 acres to explore, this area in the northeastern part of the state is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
Google Images/Kathy Regan
There are over 30 miles of hiking trails in this natural oasis. Whether you’re seeking a short hike or a full afternoon on the trails, you can find both on these state lands.
TripAdvisor/skippermark
Discover the vibrant blue of the 18-acre Bigelow Pond and 300-acre Mashapaug Pond. Some of the trails lead straight to these waters and have incredible scenery.
Flickr/Thomas Walat
Outdoor explorers can work up quite a hearty appetite. Bring a picnic along and you can dine with a magnificent waterfront view.
AllTrails/Mark Morrell
The trails vary from flat and smooth to those that cross rougher terrain. Choose your own adventure through the dense hardwood forests or through the Sessions Meadow Marsh.
Google Images/Randy Huffman
With so many wonderful hiking options, you’ll want to return to Bigelow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest again and again. So lace up those hiking boots and start enjoying the warm weather!
Google Images/Wolfgang Schweizer Learn more about Bigelow Hollow State Park and the Nipmuck State Forest by visiting the Connecticut DEEP website. To download the hiking trails map, click here.
After you’ve spent the day hiking in this paradise, stop by this lovely area restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal and a free book!
Google Images/Kathy Regan
TripAdvisor/skippermark
Flickr/Thomas Walat
AllTrails/Mark Morrell
Google Images/Randy Huffman
Google Images/Wolfgang Schweizer
Learn more about Bigelow Hollow State Park and the Nipmuck State Forest by visiting the Connecticut DEEP website. To download the hiking trails map, click here.
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